A review of Mpox including its biological characteristics, epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment & prevention strategies has just been published on Researchgate, and one of the authors is none other than UM's Prof. Renald Blundell.
The review on Mpox (previously known as monkeypox) offers an in-depth analysis of the virus's biological characteristics, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), a zoonotic Orthopoxvirus that primarily affects humans, rodents, and non-human primates. Initially endemic to Central and West Africa, Mpox became a global concern after the 2022 outbreak, which differed significantly from previous outbreaks.
The clinical course of Mpox includes an incubation period (6–13 days), followed by prodromal symptoms like fever, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that spreads across the body. Two viral clades exist: Clade I (Central African) and Clade II (West African), with Clade I being more virulent. Transmission occurs through direct contact, respiratory droplets, or contaminated objects, with recent outbreaks showing increased cases among men who have sex with men (MSM), signaling potential sexual transmission.
Diagnostic methods for Mpox rely heavily on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for detecting MPXV DNA. No specific antiviral treatment or vaccine is fully approved, but Tecovirimat, Brincidofovir, and Cidofovir—originally developed for smallpox—are considered for treatment. The smallpox vaccine, JYNNEOS, provides some protection against Mpox, though it is not widely available.
Prevention strategies emphasize vaccination, especially for at-risk populations, and strict surveillance in endemic and non-endemic regions to control the virus's spread. The review underscores the need for more research on MPXV's transmission, evolving clinical symptoms, and the development of effective treatments and vaccines to prevent future outbreaks.
The full review is accessible .
