2022 2023 mpox outbreak in Mexico

2022–2023 Mpox Outbreak in Mexico
Disease	Mpox
Location	Mexico
First reported	2022

The 2022–2023 Mpox outbreak in Mexico is part of the global mpox outbreak that began in 2022. The outbreak has been characterized by the spread of the mpox virus primarily among humans, with cases reported across various states in Mexico. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the outbreak, its epidemiology, public health response, and impact on the Mexican healthcare system.

Background

Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the mpox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. The disease is endemic in parts of Central and West Africa, but the 2022 outbreak marked a significant increase in cases outside these regions, including in Mexico.

Epidemiology

The first case of mpox in Mexico was reported in May 2022. Since then, the number of confirmed cases has steadily increased, with the majority of cases concentrated in urban areas. The outbreak has predominantly affected men who have sex with men (MSM), although cases have been reported in other demographics as well.

Transmission

The primary mode of transmission during the outbreak has been through close contact with infected individuals, including skin-to-skin contact and respiratory droplets. The role of fomites and sexual transmission is also being investigated.

Clinical Presentation

The clinical presentation of mpox in the 2022–2023 outbreak has varied, with some patients experiencing mild symptoms and others developing more severe manifestations. Common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a characteristic rash that progresses through several stages.

Public Health Response

The Mexican government, in collaboration with international health organizations, has implemented several measures to control the outbreak. These include:

• Surveillance and Reporting: Enhanced surveillance systems have been established to monitor and report new cases.
• Vaccination: Vaccination campaigns targeting high-risk populations have been initiated using the JYNNEOS vaccine.
• Public Awareness: Public health campaigns have been launched to educate the public about mpox transmission and prevention.

Impact on Healthcare System

The outbreak has placed additional strain on the Mexican healthcare system, which was already dealing with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals and clinics have had to adapt to manage the influx of mpox cases while continuing to provide care for other conditions.

Research and Development

Research efforts are ongoing to better understand the mpox virus, its transmission dynamics, and effective treatment options. Studies are also being conducted to evaluate the efficacy of existing vaccines and the development of new therapeutic interventions.

Also see

• Mpox
• 2022–2023 mpox outbreak
• Public health in Mexico
• Vaccination in Mexico