Predisposing Factors, Control Strategies, and Antiviral Therapy of Mpox Virus as a Potential Zoonotic Agent.

Abstract

Background: Monkeypox (Mpox) virus is a virulent zoonotic agent and a member of Poxviridae family. Owing to environmental, social and behavioral factors, and lack of approved vaccines or antiviral agents, the eradication of Mpox has not been successful until today. Material and methods: This study overviewed published data to assess predisposing factors, control strategies and antiviral therapy of mpox virus. Results: The recent Mpox outbreak occurred due to human behavioral factors with a cumulative total of 91,123 laboratory-confirmed cases, including 157 deaths during March 2022-September 2023. Viral immunoregulatory proteins, such as vaccinia complement control protein, inflammation modulatory protein, smallpox inhibitor of complement enzymes, chemokine binding protein, and vaccinia virus growth factor, suppress efficient responses. Host genetic variations in IL1RN (interleukin 1 Receptor Antagonist, rs452204) and IL12RB2 (rs3790567) genes and interferon-α deficiency predispose the host to more severe Mpox infection. Conclusion: Combination therapy and drug repositioning include promising approaches for the efficient antiviral therapy. The worldwide collaboration is required to enhance outbreak preparedness and infection control.