mPox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection that has garnered global attention in recent years. Historically regarded as a rare disease, mPox has seen a resurgence, resulting in several outbreaks across continents.
Background and Causes
mPox is a zoonotic disease, meaning it is transmitted from animals to humans. The disease was first identified in 1958 in monkeys, but the first human case was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Since then, mPox has primarily been endemic in certain African countries. However, in 2022, the world witnessed a global outbreak that affected many countries, including several in Europe, North America, and Asia.
Symptoms and Disease Progression
mPox often begins with flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. After a few days, those infected develop a characteristic rash that typically starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. These rashes evolve into fluid-filled blisters that later form sores before eventually crusting over. Symptoms usually last from 2 to 4 weeks.
Transmission Routes
The virus primarily spreads through close physical contact, including direct contact with rashes, bodily fluids, or respiratory droplets from an infected person. In some cases, mPox can also spread via contaminated items, such as clothing or bedding. The recent outbreak has particularly affected men who have sex with men, prompting health authorities to target vaccination efforts towards this group.
Current Situation in Denmark
In Denmark, there have been a number of sporadic cases of mPox since the global outbreak in 2022. According to the Statens Serum Institut (SSI), there have been five reported cases in 2024, all from clade IIb, which generally causes milder symptoms than the more severe clade I, primarily prevalent in Central Africa. The risk of a large outbreak in Denmark is assessed as low, but the SSI has established a stockpile of vaccines to respond swiftly to new cases.
mPox in Europe and Worldwide
Across Europe, over 27,000 cases have been reported in 46 countries, leading to a range of public health measures. Most cases have been observed among younger men, often with multiple sexual partners. According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the disease has a low mortality rate but can, in rare cases, lead to severe complications. In August 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared mPox an international public health threat due to ongoing outbreaks in Africa, where a new variant of the virus has resulted in increasing infection rates.
Vaccination and Prevention
Vaccination against mPox is a crucial part of the prevention strategy, especially for those in high-risk groups. In Europe, the IMVANEX® vaccine, developed by Bavarian Nordic, has been central to the efforts against mPox. This vaccine has proven effective in protecting against both smallpox and mPox. The Danish healthcare system has focused on vaccinating individuals in high-risk groups, including men who have sex with multiple male partners.
Future Perspectives
While mPox currently appears to be under control in many countries, the disease continues to pose a threat, particularly in areas with limited healthcare resources. The global health community is closely monitoring the evolution of new variants of the virus and working to improve prevention and treatment strategies. In Denmark, surveillance and prevention will remain key elements in protecting the population from potential future outbreaks.
mPox represents a challenge for global public health, but with effective monitoring systems, targeted vaccination efforts, and international cooperation, it is possible to keep outbreaks under control. For the Danish population, the risk of infection remains low, but it is important to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease.