**Reported in countries where MPox is not endemic (also reported in several endemic countries)
The original MPox outbreaks usually occurred in Africa, however in 2022, more unknown outbreaks in Europe and in the US were found. It is still unclear as to how or why these outbreaks occurred. “This is the first time that many mpox cases and clusters have been reported concurrently in non-endemic and endemic countries in widely disparate geographical areas” (WHO, 2023).
U.S. Cases: 30,093, US Deaths: 26, Global Cases: 85,531
In the US, MPox spiked over the summer. August 1st, 2022 reported the most amount of cases in a single day: 624.
During summer of 2022, there was an increase in vaccination rates for MPox.
Demographics:
Men are disproportionately affected, making up 28,186 cases out of 29,574 recorded
African American, White, and Hispanic populations were the most affected in the US, with similar statistical impact
At this time there is no sign of sustained transmissions in non-endemic areas beyond male-male sexual transmission.
During the height of the outbreak, a survey was sent to men who have sex with men regarding their sexual behavior and choices. This survey resulted in a reported 48% reduction in number of sexual partners, 50% reduction in one-time sexual encounters, and 50% reduction in sexual engagement with partners from sexual venues and dating apps
In May 2022, the first cases of MPox were reported in non-endemic countries.
Typically, this virus occurs in Africa, however, it began spreading to areas in Europe and the US. MPox appeared in clusters and was spread further than it had in the past, leading to confusion among experts and fear in the public. The US experienced a total of 30,093 confirmed cases with 26 deaths. Globally, there were 85,531 cases. Most of the cases reported in the US occurred during the summer months, with August 1st, 2022 producing the highest contraction period of 624 cases in one day. Along with an increase in cases, also came an increase in vaccination rates for MPox. Men were the most affected by MPox, making up 28,186 cases out of 29,574 in a report. In the US, African American, White, and Hispanic populations were the most affected racial/ethnic demographics. During the height of the outbreak, men who have sex with men reported decreasing sexual activity by nearly half. Currently, there are no sustained transmissions in a non endemic area beyond male-male sexual transmission.
Preventative:
Preventative measures for Mpox are being used to help slow the spread and are beneficial if vaccination is not available. Mpox spreads with close contact with infected individuals by coming in contact with lesions, secretions, infected materials, etc. To prevent the spread you should avoid contact with individuals who have Mpox rashes or lesions and do not touch objects and materials they have come in contact with. People should wash their hands frequently and if you suspect you may have Mpox then contact health officials and stay away from others. Lastly, the JYNNEOS vaccine is being offered in the United States to help prevent Mpox and Smallpox since they are both in the same family, Orthopoxvirus.
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