2022 2023 mpox outbreak

2022–2023 mpox outbreak

Disease	[[Mpox|Mpox]]
Virus strain	[[Monkeypox virus|Monkeypox virus]]
First case
Origin	[[|{{{origin}}}]]
Date
Confirmed cases	87,000+ (as of October 2023)
Suspected cases
Recovered
Deaths	120+ (as of October 2023)
Territories

The 2022–2023 mpox outbreak refers to the global spread of the Monkeypox virus, which began in May 2022. This outbreak marked a significant increase in the number of cases outside of the traditional endemic regions in Central Africa and West Africa. The outbreak has been characterized by human-to-human transmission, primarily through close contact.

Background

Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. The disease was first discovered in 1958 in laboratory monkeys, and the first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Epidemiology

The 2022–2023 outbreak began in the United Kingdom when a traveler returning from Nigeria was diagnosed with mpox. Subsequent cases were identified in several countries across Europe, North America, and eventually spread to other continents, leading to a global health concern.

Transmission

The primary mode of transmission during this outbreak has been through close contact with infected individuals, including skin-to-skin contact, respiratory droplets, and contact with contaminated materials such as bedding or clothing. Unlike previous outbreaks, the 2022–2023 outbreak has seen significant human-to-human transmission.

Symptoms

Symptoms of mpox include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a characteristic rash that progresses through several stages before crusting and falling off. The rash often begins on the face and spreads to other parts of the body.

Public Health Response

The World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have been actively involved in monitoring and responding to the outbreak. Vaccination campaigns using the smallpox vaccine, which provides cross-protection against mpox, have been implemented in several countries.

Impact

The outbreak has had significant public health implications, with over 87,000 confirmed cases and more than 120 deaths reported globally as of October 2023. The outbreak has highlighted the need for improved surveillance and response strategies for emerging infectious diseases.

Prevention and Control

Preventive measures include vaccination, public awareness campaigns, and isolation of infected individuals. The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and hygiene measures are also recommended to prevent transmission.

Research and Development

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the virus's transmission dynamics, developing effective treatments, and improving vaccine strategies. The outbreak has spurred interest in developing specific antiviral therapies for mpox.

Also see

• Monkeypox
• Orthopoxvirus
• Smallpox vaccine
• World Health Organization
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention