2022 2023 mpox outbreak in Asia

Disease	Mpox
Pathogen strain
Source
Location	Asia
First outbreak
First reported	2022
Index case
Dates
Date

The 2022–2023 Mpox outbreak in Asia refers to the spread of the Monkeypox virus across various countries in the Asian continent during the years 2022 and 2023. This outbreak is part of a larger global resurgence of mpox cases that began in 2022.

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 monkeys kept for research, and the first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Historically, mpox has been confined to Central and West Africa, but recent outbreaks have seen the virus spread to other continents.

Epidemiology

The 2022–2023 outbreak in Asia is part of a global increase in mpox cases that began in early 2022. The outbreak has been characterized by human-to-human transmission, which is atypical for the virus, as it is usually transmitted from animals to humans. The outbreak in Asia has affected several countries, with varying numbers of confirmed cases.

Transmission

The primary mode of transmission during the outbreak has been through close contact with infected individuals. This includes direct contact with skin lesions, bodily fluids, and respiratory droplets. The virus can also spread through contaminated materials such as bedding or clothing.

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 then spreads to other parts of the body.

Response

Countries in Asia have implemented various public health measures to control the outbreak. These measures include contact tracing, isolation of confirmed cases, and vaccination campaigns using smallpox vaccines, which provide cross-protection against mpox.

Impact

The outbreak has had significant public health implications, straining healthcare systems and prompting international collaboration to control the spread of the virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been actively involved in coordinating the response efforts.

Prevention

Preventive measures include avoiding contact with infected individuals, practicing good hygiene, and using personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for patients. Vaccination is also a key preventive strategy.

Also see

• Monkeypox
• 2022–2023 mpox outbreak
• Orthopoxvirus
• Zoonotic disease