2022-2023 monkeypox outbreak in the United States

2022-2023 Monkeypox Outbreak in the United States
Disease	Monkeypox
Virus strain	Monkeypox virus (West African clade)
Location	United States
Index case	May 2022
Dates	May 2022 – ongoing

The 2022-2023 monkeypox outbreak in the United States is part of a larger global resurgence of the monkeypox virus, primarily affecting countries outside of the traditional endemic regions in Central and West Africa. The outbreak in the United States was first identified in May 2022, with the initial cases linked to international travel or contact with travelers from regions experiencing their own outbreaks.

Epidemiology

The monkeypox virus responsible for the 2022-2023 outbreak belongs to the West African clade, which is generally considered less severe than the Congo Basin (Central African) clade. Transmission during this outbreak has primarily been through close, personal, often skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. This mode of transmission marked a notable shift from the traditionally recognized zoonotic transmission patterns seen in endemic areas.

Response

The response to the outbreak in the United States involved multiple federal and state health agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state health departments. Efforts focused on surveillance, contact tracing, and public health messaging aimed at high-risk groups. Additionally, the U.S. government facilitated the distribution of vaccines and treatments specifically developed for monkeypox.

Vaccination

Vaccination efforts have been a critical part of the response strategy. The U.S. utilized the JYNNEOS vaccine, which is approved for the prevention of both smallpox and monkeypox. Distribution strategies have prioritized individuals at highest risk of exposure, including healthcare workers and those with close contacts to known cases.

Challenges

One of the significant challenges in managing the outbreak has been the stigmatization of affected communities, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM), who were disproportionately affected in the early stages. Public health officials have emphasized the importance of inclusive and non-stigmatizing communication to effectively manage the outbreak and prevent further transmission.

See also

• Monkeypox
• Epidemiology of monkeypox
• Public health in the United States