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MPOX Is Spreading—Here’s How to Protect Yourself

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MPOX: Origins, Current Global Impact, and Key Prevention Strategies

Abstract
 Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is a viral zoonotic disease that has evolved from a localized infection in Central and West Africa into a global public health concern. This article examines the origin of mpox, identifies regions with the highest current prevalence, outlines transmission methods, highlights at-risk populations, details symptoms, and provides guidance on prevention and response strategies.

Origin of Mpox

Mpox was first identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958, but the first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The virus is endemic to Central and West Africa, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) experiencing the highest number of cases historically.

Global Prevalence as of 2025

As of early 2025, mpox cases have been reported globally, with certain countries experiencing higher prevalence:

Transmission

Mpox spreads through:

  • Direct contact with infectious sores, scabs, or body fluids.
  • Respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact.
  • Contact with contaminated materials, such as clothing or linens.
  • Close physical contact, including sexual activity.

At-Risk Populations

Individuals at higher risk include:

  • Men who have sex with men (MSM), especially those with multiple partners.
  • Healthcare workers without appropriate personal protective equipment.
  • Individuals with compromised immune systems.
  • Children and pregnant individuals may experience more severe disease.

Symptoms

Common symptoms are:

  • Fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue.
  • Swollen lymph nodes.
  • A distinctive rash that progresses through several stages before scabbing over.gov.uk
  • Lesions that can be painful and may appear on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body.

Prevention and Response

To prevent infection:

  • Avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms. en.wikipedia.org
  • Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing.
  • Use personal protective equipment when caring for individuals who are infected.
  • Vaccination is recommended for high-risk groups; the JYNNEOS vaccine is currently used.

If you suspect infection:

  • Isolate immediately to prevent spread.
  • Seek medical attention for testing and care.
  • Inform close contacts so they can monitor for symptoms.

Conclusion

Mpox remains a significant public health challenge in 2025, with certain regions experiencing higher prevalence. Understanding the origins, transmission, and prevention strategies is crucial for controlling the spread and protecting at-risk populations.

References

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Clade I Mpox Outbreak Originating in Central Africa. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/mpox/outbreaks/2023/index.htmlecdc.europa.eu+3cdc.gov+3en.wikipedia.org+3
  2. World Health Organization (WHO). Mpox outbreak. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/emergencies/situations/mpox-outbreakwho.int
  3. Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Situation Report: Mpox Multi-Country Outbreak – Region of the Americas – 28 February 2025. Retrieved from https://www.paho.org/en/documents/situation-report-mpox-multi-country-outbreak-region-americas-28-february-2025-2025paho.org+1paho.org+1
  4. GOV.UK. Mpox: affected countries. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/guidance/clade-i-mpox-affected-countriesgov.uk
  5. UNICEF. Vaccine doses allocated to nine African countries hardest hit by the mpox surge. Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/press-releases/vaccine-doses-allocated-nine-african-countries-hardest-hit-mpox-surgeunicef.org+1who.int+1
  6. Wikipedia. Mpox in the Philippines. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mpox_in_the_Philippinesen.wikipedia.org

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