2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Taiwan

2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Taiwan
Disease	Mpox
Virus strain	Monkeypox virus
Location	Taiwan
First reported	2022

The 2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Taiwan is part of the global 2022–2023 mpox outbreak, which saw a significant increase in cases of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) outside of its traditional endemic regions in Central and West Africa. The outbreak in Taiwan began in 2022, with the first cases being reported in the latter half of the year.

Background

Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. The disease is similar to smallpox, though generally less severe. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, and the disease can be transmitted from animals to humans, as well as between humans.

The global outbreak in 2022 was characterized by the spread of the virus to non-endemic countries, primarily through human-to-human transmission. This was a significant departure from previous outbreaks, which were typically contained within specific regions in Africa.

Timeline of the Outbreak in Taiwan

2022

The first cases of mpox in Taiwan were reported in mid-2022. The initial cases were linked to travelers returning from countries with ongoing outbreaks. The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control (CDC) quickly implemented measures to contain the spread, including contact tracing and isolation of confirmed cases.

2023

Throughout 2023, Taiwan continued to report sporadic cases of mpox. The CDC maintained its public health response, focusing on vaccination campaigns and public awareness to prevent further transmission.

Public Health Response

The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control played a crucial role in managing the outbreak. Key strategies included:

• Surveillance and Contact Tracing: Rapid identification and isolation of cases to prevent further spread.
• Vaccination: Deployment of the smallpox vaccine, which is effective against mpox, to high-risk populations.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about the symptoms of mpox and how to prevent transmission.

Impact

The mpox outbreak in Taiwan had several impacts on public health and society:

• Healthcare System: Increased burden on healthcare facilities due to the need for isolation and treatment of cases.
• Public Anxiety: Heightened public concern about the spread of the virus, leading to increased demand for information and vaccines.

Also see

• 2022–2023 mpox outbreak
• Mpox
• Taiwan Centers for Disease Control
• Monkeypox virus