Monkeypox: Prevention Strategies and Challenges: Updated Review

Background and Aims

The mpox virus, sometimes known as MPXV, is the cause of the disease mpox. The Monkeypox virus is a different Poxviridae family member from the orthopoxvirus (OPXV) group. Clades I and II are the two varieties of the Monkeypox virus. The mpox can spread from person to person through direct contact with infectious skin or other lesions, such as those on the mouth or genitalia. The mpox virus is spread from animal to people by bites or scratches, as well as through tasks including skinning, trapping, cooking, playing with carcasses, and eating animals. People with compromised immune systems, small children, those with a history of eczema, and pregnant women may be more susceptible to serious mpox illness. This review aimed to identify the challenges of mpox, treatment alternatives, and prevention modalities.

Methods

This review addressed mpox virus etiology, epidemiology, risk factors, clinical presentations, clinical evaluation techniques, currently available treatments, and preventative measures. An analysis of the narrative data was conducted instead of a pooled analysis. Complete data published in English was included in a comprehensive literature search conducted across relevant databases pertaining to the mpox.

Results

The recommended laboratory test for mpox is polymerase chain reaction detection of viral DNA. It is crucial to differentiate measles, scabies, herpes, syphilis, chickenpox, measles, bacterial skin infections, and allergies related to medications from mpox. The ability to distinguish between chickenpox and mpox is made by lymphadenopathy. The JYNNEOS vaccine, ACAM2000 vaccine, and MVABN also known as Imvamune vaccinations have now been investigated and authorized for usage during mpox epidemics in different locations. Tecovirimat, brincidofovir, and cidofovir which had previously shown promise against OPXV were used as antivirals during the 2022 outbreak.

Conclusion

This review provides a brief overview of current vaccinations and antiviral medications that have been assessed for their potential as treatments since the mpox threat came into existence will be provided. It is useful to increase awareness and recognize the common clinical manifestations of mpox, diagnose, and its prevention methods. To effectively reduce the global transmission of mpox, the WHO should prioritize strategies that enhance early detection of the illness, careful administration of antiviral treatments, and focused vaccination initiatives for high-risk groups or wider immunization in areas where the disease is common. Furthermore, it is crucial to establish preventive measures, conduct educational outreach, and implement robust healthcare policies.