Monkeypox

Abstract

Monkeypox (MPX) is a zoonotic tropical disease, endemic to some areas of Africa, caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), however, it is no longer limited to endemic regions and is therefore a pathogen with global reach, of public health importance. This virus is a member of the Orthopoxvirus (OPXV) genus of the Poxviridae family. It is transmitted by being in contact with an infected person or animal or with material contaminated by the virus. The clinical picture is similar to smallpox but MPX is less contagious and severe, with a lower case fatality rate, being lymphadenopathy the most prominent sign. The diagnosis is clinical-epidemiological and various laboratory techniques are used to confirm it. There is no specific treatment, support measures are individual and depend on the evolution of the disease, antivirals are used to treat severe forms. Standard smallpox vaccines have been shown to induce strong cross-protection against MPXV. An updated review of the subject in question is carried out.