Vaccinating against monkeypox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Assessing healthcare workers’ knowledge and confidence in the diagnosis, management and prevention of Monkeypox

BACKGROUND

Monkeypox (Mpox), is a disease of global public health concern, as it does not affect only countries in western and central Africa.

AIM

To assess Burundi healthcare workers (HCWs)s’ level of knowledge and confidence in the diagnosis and management of Mpox.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study via an online survey designed mainly from the World Health Organization course distributed among Burundi HCWs from June-July 2023. The questionnaire comprises 8 socioprofessional-related questions, 22 questions about Mpox disease knowledge, and 3 questions to assess confidence in Mpox diagnosis and management. The data were analyzed via SPSS software version 25.0. A P value < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance.

RESULTS

The study sample comprised 471 HCWs who were mainly medical doctors (63.9%) and nurses (30.1%). None of the 22 questions concerning Mpox knowledge had at least 50% correct responses. A very low number of HCWs (17.4%) knew that Mpox has a vaccine. The confidence level to diagnose (21.20%), treat (18.00%) or prevent (23.30%) Mpox was low among HCWs. The confidence level in the diagnosis of Mpox was associated with the HCWs’ age (P value = 0.009), sex (P value < 0.001), work experience (P value = 0.002), and residence (P value < 0.001). The confidence level to treat Mpox was significantly associated with the HCWs’ age (P value = 0.050), sex (P value < 0.001), education (P value = 0.033) and occupation (P value = 0.005). The confidence level to prevent Mpox was associated with the HCWs’ education (P value < 0.001), work experience (P value = 0.002), residence (P value < 0.001) and type of work institution (P value = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that HCWs have the lowest level of knowledge regarding Mpox and a lack of confidence in the ability to diagnose, treat or prevent it. There is an urgent need to organize continuing medical education programs on Mpox epidemiology and preparedness for Burundi HCWs. We encourage future researchers to assess potential hesitancy toward Mpox vaccination and its associated factors.

Equivalence of freeze-dried and liquid-frozen formulations of MVA-BN as smallpox and mpox vaccine

Modified Vaccinia Ankara Bavarian Nordic (MVA-BN) as a smallpox and mpox vaccine has been approved in its liquid-frozen (LF) formulation in the US, Canada, and EU. A freeze-dried (FD) formulation may offer additional benefits, such as a longer shelf life and reduced dependence on cold chain storage and transport. In a phase 2 clinical trial, 651 vaccinia-naïve participants were vaccinated with two doses of MVA-BN LF or FD, 4 weeks apart. The objectives were to compare MVA-BN FD with LF in terms of vaccine-induced immune responses, safety, and reactogenicity. Non-inferiority of the immune response was assessed by the 95% CI of the geometric mean ratios. Both formulations induced robust vaccinia-specific humoral and cellular immune responses. At peak humoral responses (Week 6), geometric means of total antibody titers were 1096 (95% CI 1013, 1186) from the FD group and 877 (95% CI 804, 956) from the LF group, achieving the primary endpoint of non-inferiority of MVA-BN FD compared to MVA-BN LF. At peak cellular responses (Week 2), geometric means of T cell spot forming units were 449 (95% CI 341, 590) from the FD group and 316 (95% CI 234, 427) from the LF group. Both formulations of MVA-BN were well tolerated, with similar unsolicited AEs and solicited systemic reactions in both groups but slightly more local reactions in the FD group. No vaccine-related serious adverse events (SAEs) or vaccine-related AE of special interest were reported. The FD formulation of MVA-BN was shown to be equivalent to MVA-BN LF.

Unveiling the nexus! Understanding knowledge issues, animal contact patterns and interaction of health care providers in the context of monkeypox and COVID-19 during monkeypox outbreak 2022

BACKGROUND

A monkeypox (MPOX) outbreak occurred in May 2022. On June 3, 2022, the WHO Blueprint organized a consultation on MPOX research knowledge gaps and priority research questions because the engagement of health care providers (HCPs) in providing accurate information and the public's motivation to adapt protective behaviour were crucial. Thus, we conducted this study to explore the knowledge issues, animal patterns, and interactions of HCPs in the context of MPOX and COVID-19 during the MPOX outbreak.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional web-based survey among 816 HCPs working in governmental health facilities from many countries, mainly Syria, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Cameroon, in September 2022.

RESULTS

Four hundred and sixty (56.37%) were aged between 18 and less than 35 years old. About 34.44% were physicians, while only 37.25% worked on the frontlines with patients. 37.99% and 5.88% received vaccinations against chickenpox and MPOX, respectively. In the meantime, 55.39% had taken courses or training programmes regarding COVID-19. Regarding knowledge-seeking behaviours (KSBs) about COVID-19, 38.73% were through passive attention, while only 28.8% got their information through active search. Most of the participants (56.86%) had a moderate level of knowledge regarding COVID-19. Only 8.82% had courses or training programmes regarding MPOX. Regarding KSB about MPOX, 50.86% were obtained through passive attention, while only 18.01% and 23.04% got their information through active and passive search, respectively. Most of the participants (57.60%) had a poor level of knowledge regarding MPOX. The regression analysis of the MPOX knowledge score revealed that individuals working on the frontlines with patients and those who had training programmes or courses were shown to have a higher score by 1.25 and 3.18 points, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The studied HCPs had poorer knowledge about the MPOX virus than they did about the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Training programmes and education courses had an impact on their knowledge.

Global perspectives on smallpox vaccine against monkeypox: a comprehensive meta-analysis and systematic review of effectiveness, protection, safety and cross-immunogenicity

A large outbreak of monkeypox occurred in 2022, and most people lack immunity to orthopoxvirus. Smallpox vaccination is essential for preventing further smallpox outbreaks. This study evaluated the effectiveness, protection, safety, and cross-immunogenicity of smallpox vaccine in preventing monkeypox infection. PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched from database inception to 10 March 2024. We included studies involving "monkeypox virus" and "vaccinations", and excluded reviews, animal studies, and articles with missing or duplicate data. A total of 37 studies with 57,693 participants were included in the final analysis. The effectiveness data showed that monkeypox infection rates were lower in the smallpox-vaccinated group than in the unvaccinated group (risk ratio [RR]: 0.46; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.31-0.68). The protection data showed that smallpox vaccination effectively reduced the risk of severe monkeypox infection (RR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.42-0.87). Third-generation vaccines showed greater efficacy (RR: 0.36, 95% CI: 0.22-0.56) than first-generation vaccines. The number of doses of smallpox vaccine has no significant effect on monkeypox. Safety data showed that adverse reactions after smallpox vaccination were mainly mild and included local erythema, swelling, induration, itching, and pain. Meanwhile, we found that smallpox vaccination could induce the production of neutralizing antibodies against monkeypox. Our findings offer compelling evidence supporting the clinical application of the smallpox vaccine for preventing monkeypox and advocate that high-risk groups should be prioritized for receiving one dose of the smallpox vaccine if the vaccine stockpile is low.

MVA-BN vaccine effectiveness: A systematic review of real-world evidence in outbreak settings

BACKGROUND

Mpox is a disease endemic to Central and West Africa. It caused outbreaks in non-endemic countries, mainly in 2022. The endemic Democratic Republic of Congo is currently experiencing its largest outbreak yet. The vaccine Modified Vaccinia Ankara-Bavarian Nordic (MVA-BN) is approved for active immunization against mpox and smallpox. Since the outbreak in 2022, real-world studies have assessed MVA-BN's vaccine effectiveness (VE) against mpox, and this systematic literature review aims to summarize the most current evidence.

METHODS

Medline (via PubMed), Embase, and LILACS were searched, as well as grey literature sources and publications' bibliographies to identify observational studies published between 1/Jan/2022 and 28/Feb/2024 that estimate the VE of MVA-BN against mpox or provide risk measures that allow calculation of these VE estimates. Data were presented descriptively in tables and text; the methodological quality of included records was assessed using NHLBI/NIH quality assessment tools.

RESULTS

The literature search identified 16 records that fit the inclusion criteria. The studies took place in high-income countries and were heterogeneous in design, setting, and definition of at-risk populations. MVA-BN VE estimates against mpox infection were assessed. Where the study population was exclusively or primarily those receiving pre-exposure prophylactic vaccination, the adjusted VE estimates ranged from 35 % to 86 % (n = 8 studies) for one dose and from 66 % to 90 % (n = 5) for two doses. Where only post-exposure prophylactic vaccination was assessed, adjusted VE estimates were reported for one dose only at 78 % and 89 % (n = 2). Additionally, MVA-BN reduced the risk of mpox-related hospitalization in one study and the severity of mpox clinical manifestations in two studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite heterogeneity in study design, setting, and at-risk populations, the reported VE estimates against mpox infection demonstrated the effectiveness of one or two doses of MVA-BN in the context of an outbreak across multiple countries.

Analysis of Mpox by Occupation and Industry in Seven U.S. Jurisdictions, May 2022-March 2023

During responses to outbreaks, the collection and analysis of data on employed case patients' industry and occupation are necessary to better understand the relationship between work and health outcomes. The occurrence of mpox by occupation and industry has not previously been assessed in the context of the 2022 outbreak. We analyzed employment data from 2548 mpox cases reported to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from surveillance systems in seven U.S. jurisdictions and population-based reference data on employment patterns from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics to describe the differential proportionate distribution of cases across occupation and industry groups using the proportionate morbidity ratio. In gender-specific analyses, we found that men employed in certain occupations and industries had a higher relative risk of mpox than others. While occupational transmission cannot be ruled out, it is more likely that individuals with personal and behavioral risk factors for mpox were more likely to work in these occupations and industries. This analysis provides an example of collecting and analyzing occupation and industry data in case reports to understand possible differences in risk by occupation and industry in infectious disease outbreak investigation and help inform resource allocation, messaging, and response.

Healthcare Providers' and Frontline Workers' Experiences of an Ebola Vaccine Trial in the Boende Health District of the Democratic Republic of the Congo

This study explored the experiences of healthcare providers (HCPs) and frontline workers who were involved in an Ebola vaccine trial in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The researchers interviewed a total of 99 participants (HCPs and frontline workers) living and working in the Boende health district during the period of the study, from February to March 2022. These individuals included a mix of trial participants and non-trial participants (staff of the trial, local health authorities, and head nurses of health centers). In-depth individual interviews, as well as focus group discussions (FGDs), were used to understand interviewees' experiences and perceptions. The data were analyzed to identify the main themes. The findings unveiled a multitude of positive experiences among interviewees/FGD participants. The commitment of the trial investigators to improve the study site and to equip the volunteers with necessary skills and knowledge greatly contributed to a positive trial experience. However, some interviewees felt that the reimbursement for time and travel expenses during their trial visits was insufficient in comparison with their expectations. Additionally, there were expressions of worry about the frequency of blood draws during scheduled trial visits. Our findings emphasize the critical importance of addressing and continuously considering the perspectives and concerns of trial participants before designing and implementing vaccine trials. By actively incorporating their inputs, researchers can mitigate concerns and tailor communication strategies, potentially enhancing the overall success and impact of the vaccine trial.

Buffalopox: An emerging zoonotic challenge

As a variant of Vaccinia virus, Buffalopox virus is known to cause Buffalopox disease. In recent times, sporadic outbreaks of the infection in humans have been reported, especially in the endemic countries of Southeast Asia. Though mortality has not been high, associated morbidity is significant. Due to waning cross-protective immunity against smallpox, Buffalopox virus is one of the several orthopox viruses likely to emerge or reemerge. To combat this virus, early recognition, isolation, and management of the infection in animals and humans is of prime importance. In addition, vaccination in animals and humans at risk of acquiring infection is essential as a means of limiting animal-to-animal and animal-to-human spread of the virus. With this in mind, a collaborative approach between the animal and human health sectors is indispensable.

The willingness of healthcare workers to be vaccinated against monkeypox and their knowledge about monkeypox: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Vaccination is an important method to address the monkeypox epidemic. We aimed to analyze the knowledge of healthcare workers (HCWs) about human monkeypox and their attitudes toward vaccination.MethodsWe searched PubMed, Embase and Web of Science for articles and performed a meta-analysis using Stata 14.0 with a random-effects model. This study was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement.

Results

A total of 34 studies with 43,226 HCWs were included in this meta-analysis. The results showed that 54 % (95 % CI: 0.39-0.69) of the HCWs were willing to be vaccinated against monkeypox, and only 40 % (95 % CI: 0.29-0.50) of the HCWs had good knowledge of monkeypox. By analyzing the vaccination history of HCWs, we found that history of smallpox vaccination did not significantly affect the willingness of HCWs to receive another vaccination (OR = 0.53, 95 % CI: 0.23-1.26), whereas HCWs who had been vaccinated with the influenza vaccine (OR = 2.80, 95 % CI: 1.29-6.11) or COVID-19 vaccine (OR = 3.10, 95 % CI: 2.00-4.81) showed greater willingness to receive the monkeypox vaccine. In terms of income, low-income HCWs were less willing to be vaccinated against monkeypox (OR = 0.69, 95 % CI: 0.54-0.89), whereas middle-income HCWs were more willing (OR = 1.45, 95 % CI: 1.04-2.02). Notably, although HCWs with education related to monkeypox had better knowledge of monkeypox than HCWs without education related to monkeypox, the difference was not statistically significant (OR = 1.83, 95 % CI: 0.80-4.18).

Conclusions

Publicity and education on monkeypox should be strengthened so that more people, especially HCWs, can have a good understanding of monkeypox and be willing to be vaccinated.

Assessing healthcare workers' confidence level in diagnosing and managing emerging infectious virus of human mpox in hospitals in Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia: multicentre institution-based cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

To assess healthcare workers' (HCWs) confidence level in diagnosing and managing mpox disease and its associated factors in hospitals in the Amhara Region.

DESIGN

Institution-based cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Hospitals in the Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 640 HCWs, with a response rate of 96.9%, participated from 1 October to 30 December 2022. A multistage stratified random sampling technique with proportional allocation was used to recruit study participants. Data were collected using the KoboCollect toolbox and exported to STATA V.17 for analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to describe data. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of confidence level to diagnose and manage mpox at p<0.05.

PRIMARY OUTCOME

HCWs' confidence level in diagnosing and managing mpox disease and its associated factors.

RESULTS

The overall proportion of HCWs who had high confidence level in diagnosing and managing mpox disease was found to be 31.5% (95% CI: 27.9%, 35.2%). Similarly, 26.8% (95% CI: 23.2%, 30.3%) and 41.8% (95% CI: 38.1%, 45.4%) of HCWs expressed medium and low confidence level to diagnose and manage the disease, respectively. The odds of higher confidence versus lower or medium confidence level in diagnosing and managing mpox were greater for HCWs who regularly visit amenable websites (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.59, 95% CI: 1.16, 2.2), were physicians (AOR=1.9, 95% CI: 1.32, 2.73), were aged 30-35 years old (AOR=1.64, 95% CI: 1.12, 2.39), had got public health emergency epidemic disease management training (AOR=2.8, 95% CI: 1.94, 4.04) and had positive attitudes (AOR=1.72, 95% CI: 1.26, 2.36) compared with their counterparts.

CONCLUSION

The overall confidence level of HCWs in diagnosing and managing mpox disease in the study area was low. Therefore, the HCWs should be regularly updated about mpox disease through morning sessions and training in the diagnosis and clinical management of mpox disease including infection prevention and control.

Safety and Immunogenicity of the Heterologous 2-Dose Ad26.ZEBOV, MVA-BN-Filo Vaccine Regimen in Health Care Providers and Frontliners of the Democratic Republic of the Congo

BACKGROUND

In response to recent Ebola epidemics, vaccine development against the Zaire ebolavirus (EBOV) has been fast-tracked in the past decade. Health care providers and frontliners working in Ebola-endemic areas are at high risk of contracting and spreading the virus.

METHODS

This study assessed the safety and immunogenicity of the 2-dose heterologous Ad26.ZEBOV, MVA-BN-Filo vaccine regimen (administered at a 56-day interval) among 699 health care providers and frontliners taking part in a phase 2, monocentric, randomized vaccine trial in Boende, the Democratic Republic of Congo. The first participant was enrolled and vaccinated on 18 December 2019. Serious adverse events were collected up to 6 months after the last received dose. The EBOV glycoprotein FANG ELISA (Filovirus Animal Nonclinical Group enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) was used to measure the immunoglobulin G-binding antibody response to the EBOV glycoprotein.

RESULTS

The vaccine regimen was well tolerated with no vaccine-related serious adverse events reported. Twenty-one days after the second dose, an EBOV glycoprotein-specific binding antibody response was observed in 95.2% of participants.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2-dose vaccine regimen was well tolerated and led to a high antibody response among fully vaccinated health care providers and frontliners in Boende.

Monkeypox virus: insights into pathogenesis and laboratory testing methods

The monkeypox virus (MPXV) is a zoonotic pathogen that transmits between monkeys and humans, exhibiting clinical similarities with the smallpox virus. Studies on the immunopathogenesis of MPXV revealed that an initial strong innate immune response is elicited on viral infection that subsequently helps in circumventing the host defense. Once the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it a global public health emergency in July 2022, it became essential to clearly demarcate the MPXV-induced symptoms from other viral infections. We have exhaustively searched the various databases involving Google Scholar, PubMed, and Medline to extract the information comprehensively compiled in this review. The primary focus of this review is to describe the diagnostic methods for MPXV such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and serological assays, along with developments in viral isolation, imaging techniques, and next-generation sequencing. These innovative technologies have the potential to greatly enhance the accuracy of diagnostic procedures. Significant discoveries involving MPXV immunopathogenesis have also been highlighted. Overall, this will be a knowledge repertoire that will be crucial for the development of efficient monitoring and control strategies in response to the MPXV infection helping clinicians and researchers in formulating healthcare strategies.

Monkeypox Outbreak 2022, from a Rare Disease to Global Health Emergence: Implications for Travellers

Monkeypox (mpox), a zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), poses a significant public health threat with the potential for global dissemination beyond its endemic regions in Central and West Africa. This study explores the multifaceted aspects of monkeypox, covering its epidemiology, genomics, travel-related spread, mass gathering implications, and economic consequences. Epidemiologically, mpox exhibits distinct patterns, with variations in age and gender susceptibility. Severe cases can arise in immunocompromised individuals, underscoring the importance of understanding the factors contributing to its transmission. Genomic analysis of MPXV highlights its evolutionary relationship with the variola virus and vaccinia virus. Different MPXV clades exhibit varying levels of virulence and transmission potential, with Clade I associated with higher mortality rates. Moreover, the role of recombination in MPXV evolution remains a subject of interest, with implications for understanding its genetic diversity. Travel and mass gatherings play a pivotal role in the spread of monkeypox. The ease of international travel and increasing globalization have led to outbreaks beyond African borders. The economic ramifications of mpox outbreaks extend beyond public health. Direct treatment costs, productivity losses, and resource-intensive control efforts can strain healthcare systems and economies. While vaccination and mitigation strategies have proven effective, the cost-effectiveness of routine vaccination in non-endemic countries remains a subject of debate. This study emphasizes the role of travel, mass gatherings, and genomics in its spread and underscores the economic impacts on affected regions. Enhancing surveillance, vaccination strategies, and public health measures are essential in controlling this emerging infectious disease.

Biological Characteristics and Pathogenesis of Monkeypox Virus: An Overview

Although the smallpox virus has been eradicated worldwide, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about the virus's potential to propagate globally. The WHO labeled monkeypox a world public health emergency in July 2022, requiring urgent prevention and treatment. The monkeypox virus is a part of the Poxviridae family, Orthopoxvirus genus, and is accountable for smallpox, which has killed over a million people in the past. Natural hosts of the virus include squirrels, Gambian rodents, chimpanzees, and other monkeys. The monkeypox virus has transmitted to humans through primary vectors (various animal species) and secondary vectors, including direct touch with lesions, breathing particles from body fluids, and infected bedding. The viral particles are ovoid or brick-shaped, 200-250 nm in diameter, contain a single double-stranded DNA molecule, and reproduce only in the cytoplasm of infected cells. Monkeypox causes fever, cold, muscle pains, headache, fatigue, and backache. The phylogenetic investigation distinguished between two genetic clades of monkeypox: the more pathogenic Congo Basin clade and the West Africa clade. In recent years, the geographical spread of the human monkeypox virus has accelerated despite a paucity of information regarding the disease's emergence, ecology, and epidemiology. Using lesion samples and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the monkeypox virus was diagnosed. In the USA, the improved Ankara vaccine can now be used to protect people who are at a higher risk of getting monkeypox. Antivirals that we have now work well against smallpox and may stop the spread of monkeypox, but there is no particular therapy for monkeypox.

Plausible reasons for the resurgence of Mpox (formerly Monkeypox): an overview

Poxviruses are large and diversified viruses that cause an emerging zoonotic disease known as monkeypox (mpox). In the past, mpox predominated primarily in the rural rainforests of Central and West Africa. Recently, the exportation of mpoxv from Africa to other continents has been progressively reported. However, the lack of travel history to Africa in most of the currently reported cases in 2022 promotes the sign of changing epidemiology of this disease. Concerns over the geographic distribution and continued resurgence of mpox is growing. In this review, we addressed the geographic distribution, transmission, reasons for the resurgence of mpox, and vaccination. Although the precise cause of the resurgence in mpox cases is mostly unknown, several suggested factors are believed to be waning immunity, accumulation of unvaccinated people, ecological conditions, risk behaviors of men who have sex with men, and genetic evolution.

A Review of the Past, Present, and Future of the Monkeypox Virus: Challenges, Opportunities, and Lessons from COVID-19 for Global Health Security

Monkeypox, a rare but significant zoonotic and orthopoxviral disease, has garnered increasing attention due to its potential for human-to-human transmission and its recent resurgence in multiple countries throughout Europe, North America, and Oceania. The disease has emerged as a novel threat to the global health systems that are still striving to recover from the major shocks of the COVID-19 pandemic. The unusual manifestation of the illness highlights a substantial knowledge deficit and necessitates the immediate development of a public health action strategy, considering the epidemiological differences observed in the ongoing outbreak and the appearance of cases in non-endemic nations. This literature review aims to synthesize existing knowledge on monkeypox, encompassing its historical context, etiology, epidemiology, surveillance, prevention, transmission, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatments, and recent outbreak. Particular attention is given to both advances and gaps in our understanding of monkeypox, and we point toward future directions for research and intervention efforts as pertains to vaccine development and distribution. Lastly, we will also review the recent outbreak through a sociopolitical lens as relates to decision-making strategies, especially given the lessons learned from COVID-19.

Monkeypox: Virology, laboratory diagnosis and therapeutic approach

Monkeypox infection outbreaks have been observed sporadically in Africa, usually as a result of interaction with wildlife reservoirs. The genomes of the new strain range in size from 184.7 to 198.0 kb and are identified with 143-214 open reading frames. Viral cores are rapidly carried on microtubules away from the cell's perimeter and deeper into the cytoplasm once the virus and cell membranes fuse. Depending on the kind of exposure, patients with monkeypox may experience a febrile prodrome 5-13 days after exposure, which frequently includes lymphadenopathy, malaise, headaches, and muscle aches. A different diagnostic approach is available for monkeypox, including histopathological analysis, electron microscopy, immunoassays, polymerase chain reaction, genome sequencing, microarrays, loop-mediated isothermal amplification technology and CRISPR (i.e., "clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats"). There are currently no particular, clinically effective treatments available for the monkeypox virus. An initial treatment is cidofovir. As a monophosphate nucleotide analog, cidofovir is transformed into an inhibitor of viral DNA polymerase by cellular kinases, which is analogous to cidofovir's function in inhibiting viral DNA synthesis. The European Medicine Agency and the Food and Drug Administration have both granted permission for IMVAMUNE, a replication-deficient, attenuated third-generation modified vaccinia Ankara vaccine, to be used for the prevention of smallpox and monkeypox in adults.

Clinical Strategies and Therapeutics for Human Monkeypox Virus: A Revised Perspective on Recent Outbreaks

An enveloped double-stranded DNA monkeypox virus (MPXV) is a causative agent of the zoonotic viral disease, human monkeypox (HMPX). MPXV belongs to the genus Orthopoxviridae, a family of notorious smallpox viruses, and so it shares similar clinical pathophysiological features. The recent multicountry HMPX outbreak (May 2022 onwards) is recognized as an emerging global public health emergency by the World Health Organization, shunting its endemic status as opined over the past few decades. Re-emergence of HMPX raises concern to reassess the present clinical strategy and therapeutics as its outbreak evolves further. Keeping a check on these developments, here we provide insights into the HMPX epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical representation. Weighing on its early prevention, we reviewed the strategies that are being enrolled for HMPX diagnosis. In the line of expanded MPXV prevalence, we further reviewed its clinical management and the diverse employed preventive/therapeutic strategies, including vaccines (JYNNEOS, ACAM2000, VIGIV) and antiviral drugs/inhibitors (Tecovirimat, Cidofovir, Brincidofovir). Taken together, with a revised perspective of HMPX re-emergence, the present report summarizes new knowledge on its prevalence, pathology, and prevention strategies.

Progress and prospects on vaccine development against monkeypox infection

The monkeypox virus (MPOX) is an uncommon zoonotic illness brought on by an orthopoxvirus (OPXV). MPOX can occur with symptoms similar to smallpox. Since April 25, 2023, 110 nations have reported 87,113 confirmed cases and 111 fatalities. Moreover, the outspread prevalence of MPOX in Africa and a current outbreak of MPOX in the U.S. have made it clear that naturally occurring zoonotic OPXV infections remain a public health concern. Existing vaccines, though they provide cross-protection to MPOX, are not specific for the causative virus, and their effectiveness in the light of the current multi-country outbreak is still to be verified. Furthermore, as a sequel of the eradication and cessation of smallpox vaccination for four decades, MPOX found a possibility to re-emerge, but with distinct characteristics. The World Health Organization (WHO) suggested that nations use affordable MPOX vaccines within a framework of coordinated clinical effectiveness and safety evaluations. Vaccines administered in the smallpox control program and conferred immunity against MPOX. Currently, vaccines approved by WHO for use against MPOX are replicating (ACAM2000), low replicating (LC16m8), and non-replicating (MVA-BN). Although vaccines are accessible, investigations have demonstrated that smallpox vaccination is approximately 85% efficient in inhibiting MPOX. In addition, developing new vaccine methods against MPOX can help prevent this infection. To recognize the most efficient vaccine, it is essential to assess effects, including reactogenicity, safety, cytotoxicity effect, and vaccine-associated side effects, especially for high-risk and vulnerable people. Recently, several orthopoxvirus vaccines have been produced and are being evaluated. Hence, this review aims to provide an overview of the efforts dedicated to several types of vaccine candidates with different strategies for MPOX, including inactivated, live-attenuated, virus-like particles (VLPs), recombinant protein, nucleic acid, and nanoparticle-based vaccines, which are being developed and launched.

Critical Elements of an Mpox Vaccination Model at the Largest Public Health Hospital System in the United States

In the spring of 2022, mpox spread to non-endemic countries, including the United States. In New York City (NYC), vaccine demand grew as quickly as case counts. With the leadership of the Regional Emerging Special Pathogens Treatment Center (RESPTC) at NYC Health and Hospitals/Bellevue (NYC H+H)-part of the largest public hospital system in the United States-an innovative vaccination model was established that overcame challenges involving health inequities, inadequate access, and lack of vaccine uptake, to successfully administer JYNNEOS vaccines to over 12,000 patients. Transmission has slowed since its peak in August 2022, which has been attributed to successful vaccination campaigns, infection-induced immunity, and behavioral changes among those at highest risk; however, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) assessment released on 4 April 2023 suggests jurisdictions with low vaccination levels (<35%) remain at risk for an mpox resurgence. Here, we summarize the critical aspects of our mpox vaccination model in NYC, which include integration into routine clinical care, prioritization of health equity, and reutilization of COVID-19 vaccination systems, to provide valuable insights for healthcare institutions as we move into the next stage of this ongoing outbreak.

The Global Monkeypox (Mpox) Outbreak: A Comprehensive Review

Monkeypox (Mpox) is a contagious illness that is caused by the monkeypox virus, which is part of the same family of viruses as variola, vaccinia, and cowpox. It was first detected in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1970 and has since caused sporadic cases and outbreaks in a few countries in West and Central Africa. In July 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a public-health emergency of international concern due to the unprecedented global spread of the disease. Despite breakthroughs in medical treatments, vaccines, and diagnostics, diseases like monkeypox still cause death and suffering around the world and have a heavy economic impact. The 85,189 reported cases of Mpox as of 29 January 2023 have raised alarm bells. Vaccines for the vaccinia virus can protect against monkeypox, but these immunizations were stopped after smallpox was eradicated. There are, however, treatments available once the illness has taken hold. During the 2022 outbreak, most cases occurred among men who had sex with men, and there was a range of 7-10 days between exposure and the onset of symptoms. Three vaccines are currently used against the Monkeypox virus. Two of these vaccines were initially developed for smallpox, and the third is specifically designed for biological-terrorism protection. The first vaccine is an attenuated, nonreplicating smallpox vaccine that can also be used for immunocompromised individuals, marketed under different names in different regions. The second vaccine, ACAM2000, is a recombinant second-generation vaccine initially developed for smallpox. It is recommended for use in preventing monkeypox infection but is not recommended for individuals with certain health conditions or during pregnancy. The third vaccine, LC16m8, is a licensed attenuated smallpox vaccine designed to lack the B5R envelope-protein gene to reduce neurotoxicity. It generates neutralizing antibodies to multiple poxviruses and broad T-cell responses. The immune response takes 14 days after the second dose of the first two vaccines and 4 weeks after the ACAM2000 dose for maximal immunity development. The efficacy of these vaccines in the current outbreak of monkeypox is uncertain. Adverse events have been reported, and a next generation of safer and specific vaccines is needed. Although some experts claim that developing vaccines with a large spectrum of specificity can be advantageous, epitope-focused immunogens are often more effective in enhancing neutralization.

Highly attenuated poxvirus-based vaccines against emerging viral diseases

Although one member of the poxvirus family, variola virus, has caused one of the most devastating human infections worldwide, smallpox, the knowledge gained over the last 30 years on the molecular, virological and immunological mechanisms of these viruses has allowed the use of members of this family as vectors for the generation of recombinant vaccines against numerous pathogens. In this review, we cover different aspects of the history and biology of poxviruses with emphasis on their application as vaccines, from first- to fourth-generation, against smallpox, monkeypox, emerging viral diseases highlighted by the World Health Organization (COVID-19, Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever, Ebola and Marburg virus diseases, Lassa fever, Middle East respiratory syndrome and severe acute respiratory syndrome, Nipah and other henipaviral diseases, Rift Valley fever and Zika), as well as against one of the most concerning prevalent virus, the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, the causative agent of AcquiredImmunodeficiency Syndrome. We discuss the implications in human health of the 2022 monkeypox epidemic affecting many countries, and the rapid prophylactic and therapeutic measures adopted to control virus dissemination within the human population. We also describe the preclinical and clinical evaluation of the Modified Vaccinia virus Ankara and New York vaccinia virus poxviral strains expressing heterologous antigens from the viral diseases listed above. Finally, we report different approaches to improve the immunogenicity and efficacy of poxvirus-based vaccine candidates, such as deletion of immunomodulatory genes, insertion of host-range genes and enhanced transcription of foreign genes through modified viral promoters. Some future prospects are also highlighted.

A multinational cross-sectional study on the awareness and concerns of healthcare providers toward monkeypox and the promotion of the monkeypox vaccination

Background

The aim of this study was to explore potential healthcare workers' (HCWs) concerns about the monkeypox virus in order to create practical solutions to manage this disease.

Methods

Online cross-sectional research was conducted in 11 Arabic countries (Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Syria, Libya, Algeria, Tunisia, Iraq, Palestine, Jordan, and Sudan) from 2 August 2022 to 28 December 2022.

Results

Approximately 82% of respondents felt the need to acquire further information. The acceptability of the vaccine against monkeypox has been indicated by more than half of the participants (54.5%). Furthermore, we state that 45% of the participants are knowledgeable about the monkeypox virus, and 53.1% of the participants have never been affected with COVID-19 before are more worried about COVID-19 than about monkeypox. Participants diagnosed with COVID-19 were 0.63 times less likely to worry about monkeypox than those who were not diagnosed with COVID-19. A greater willingness to get the monkeypox vaccination was seen among the age group 21-30 years (42.4%) compared to the other age groups.

Conclusion

Most healthcare professionals have a moderate knowledge of the monkeypox virus. Furthermore, they demonstrated a low willingness to get the vaccination against the monkeypox virus.

Design peptide and multi-epitope protein vaccine candidates against monkeypox virus using reverse vaccinology approach: an in-silico study

Monkeypox is a zoonotic virus that has recently affected different countries worldwide. On July 23, 2022, the WHO declared the outbreak of monkeypox as a public health emergency of international concern. Surveillance studies conducted in Central Africa in the 1980s and later during outbreaks in the same region showed smallpox vaccines to be clinically somewhat effective against Monkeypox virus. However, there is no specific vaccine against this virus. This research used bioinformatics techniques to establish a novel multi-epitope vaccine candidate against Monkeypox that can induce a strong immune response. Five well-known antigenic proteins (E8L, A30L, A35R, A29L, and B21R) of the virus were picked and assessed as possible immunogenic peptides. Two suitable peptide candidates were selected according to bio-informatics analysis. Based upon in silico evaluation, two multi-epitope vaccine candidates (ALALAR and ALAL) were built with rich-epitope domains consisting of high-ranking T and B-cell epitopes. After predicting and evaluating the 3D structure of the protein candidates, the most efficient 3D models were considered for docking studies with Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and the HLA-A * 11:01, HLA-A*01:01, HLA-A*02:01, HLA-A*03:01, HLA-A*07:02, HLA-A*15:01, HLA-A*30:01 receptors. Subsequently, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation of up to 150 nanoseconds was employed to assess the durability of the interaction of the vaccine candidates with immune receptors. MD studies showed that M5-HLA-A*11:01, ALAL-TLR4, and ALALAR-TLR4 complexes were stable during simulation. Analysis of the in silico outcomes indicates that the M5 peptide and ALAL and ALALAR proteins may be suitable vaccine candidates against the Monkeypox virus.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Epidemiology, host range, and associated risk factors of monkeypox: an emerging global public health threat

Based on recent multiregional epidemiological investigations of Monkeypox (MPX), on 24 July 2022, the World Health Organization declared it a global public health threat. Retrospectively MPX was an ignored zoonotic endemic infection to tropical rainforest regions of Western and Central African rural communities until a worldwide epidemic in May 2022 verified the potential threat of monkeypox virus (MPXV) to be propagated across the contemporary world via transnational tourism and animal movements. During 2018-2022, different cases of MPX diagnosed in Nigerian travelers have been documented in Israel, the United Kingdom, Singapore, and the United States. More recently, on 27 September 2022, 66,000 MPX cases have been confirmed in more than 100 non-endemic countries, with fluctuating epidemiological footprinting from retrospective epidemics. Particular disease-associated risk factors fluctuate among different epidemics. The unpredicted appearance of MPX in non-endemic regions suggests some invisible transmission dynamic. Hence, broad-minded and vigilant epidemiological attention to the current MPX epidemic is mandatory. Therefore, this review was compiled to highlight the epidemiological dynamic, global host ranges, and associated risk factors of MPX, concentrating on its epidemic potential and global public health threat.

Ophthalmic manifestations of monkeypox infection

After the global COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an alarming concern with the monkeypox (mpox) outbreak, which has affected more than 110 countries worldwide. Monkeypox virus is a doublestranded DNA virus of the genus Orthopox of the Poxviridae family, which causes this zoonotic disease. Recently, the mpox outbreak was declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). Monkeypox patients can present with ophthalmic manifestation and ophthalmologists have a role to play in managing this rare entity. Apart from causing systemic involvement such as skin lesions, respiratory infection and involvement of body fluids, Monkeypox related ophthalmic disease (MPXROD) causes varied ocular manifestations such as lid and adnexal involvement, periorbital and lid lesion, periorbital rash, conjunctivitis, blepharocounctivitis and keratitis. A detailed literature review shows few reports on MPXROD infections with limited overview on management strategies. The current review article is aimed to provide the ophthalmologist with an overview of the disease with a spotlight on ophthalmic features. We briefly discuss the morphology of the MPX, various modes of transmission, an infectious pathway of the virus, and the host immune response. A brief overview of the systemic manifestations and complications has also been elucidated. We especially highlight the detailed ophthalmic manifestations of mpox, their management, and prevention of vision threatening sequelae.

Clinical and Epidemiological Interventions for Monkeypox Management in Children: A Systematic Review

This review aims to compile the available literature on monkeypox, identify risk factors for developing the disease, and recommend effective preventative methods to reduce the number of reported cases and fatalities in children and pregnant women. In seeking out pertinent studies on monkeypox virus in children and pregnant women, we searched the literature using the databases Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus up to 1st February 2023. This study analyzed data from case studies of monkeypox in children and pregnant women. Clinical data and test findings of monkeypox patients less than 18 years old and pregnant women were analyzed. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to do the quality evaluation. Our record examination spanned the years 1985 to 2023 and found 17 children and five pregnant female patients treated with monkeypox in various hospitals/community centers. Zaire, Gabon, Chicago, Sierra Leone, Central African Republic, Northern DR Congo, Liberia, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Florida all contributed to the 14 studies analyzed. There were no studies identified for meta-analysis of selected case studies of hospitalized children and pregnant women who were diagnosed with monkeypox. The incidence, prevalence, clinical characteristics, diagnosis, management, prevention, vaccinations, infant care, and care for expectant mothers are all discussed in this systematic review of monkeypox in children. Our research findings may provide a foundation for further focused research and the development of related recommendations or guidelines.

Efficacy of the modified vaccinia Ankara virus vaccine and the replication-competent vaccine ACAM2000 in monkeypox prevention

BACKGROUND

Recently, there has been an uptick in reported cases of monkeypox (Mpox) in Africa and across the globe. This prompted us to investigate the efficacy of the two vaccines that can prevent Mpox, the modified vaccinia Ankara virus (MVA) vaccine and ACAM2000 vaccine. We analyzed them to determine their rates of humoral cell responses, adverse events, and rash reactions and used these factors as the primary indicators.

METHODS

This study adapted primary data obtained from the Medline, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library databases. We included a total of eight studies, three of which explored the ACAM2000 vaccine and five of which explored the JYNNEOS MVA vaccine.

RESULTS

There were significant differences in the rates of humoral responses after inoculation by the two vaccines. JYNNEOS MVA vaccine immunization resulted in a statistically significant increased humoral immune response with an effect size of 81.00 (42.80, 119.21) at a 95% CI and a rash reaction with an effect size of 96.50 (42.09, 235.09.21) at a 95% CI. ACAM2000 resulted in a lesser increase in neutralizing antibodies than JYNNEOS MVA vaccine. Similar findings were identified for the rates of adverse reactions, but the difference was not statistically significant. The differences in rash reaction rates in the two vaccination groups were also not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

ACAM2000 and JYNNEOS vaccines have proven to be efficient in preventing Mpox even though variations exist in their modes of action and associated significant effects. The nonreplicating nature of JYNNEOS prevents the occurrence of the adverse effects seen with other vaccines.

Recent Advances in Research and Management of Human Monkeypox Virus: An Emerging Global Health Threat

In 2003, the United States saw an epidemic of monkeypox that was later traced back to rodents of West Africa infected with the monkeypox virus (MPXV). Disease in the United States seemed less severe than the smallpox-like disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In this study, researchers analyzed data from Central Africa: two distinct MPXV clades were confirmed by sequencing the genomes of MPXV isolates from Western Africa, the United States, and Central Africa. By comparing open reading frames across MPXV clades, scientists can infer which virus proteins might account for the observed variation in pathogenicity in humans. Monkeypox can be prevented and controlled with a better understanding of MPXV's molecular etiology and epidemiological and clinical features. In light of the current outbreaks worldwide, we provide updated information on monkeypox for medical professionals in this review.

Mpox respiratory transmission: the state of the evidence

The relative contribution of the respiratory route to transmission of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is unclear. We review the evidence for respiratory transmission of monkeypox virus (MPXV), examining key works from animal models, human outbreaks and case reports, and environmental studies. Laboratory experiments have initiated MPXV infection in animals via respiratory routes. Some animal-to-animal respiratory transmission has been shown in controlled studies, and environmental sampling studies have detected airborne MPXV. Reports from real-life outbreaks demonstrate that transmission is associated with close contact, and although it is difficult to infer the route of MPXV acquisition in individual case reports, so far respiratory transmission has not been specifically implicated. Based on the available evidence, the likelihood of human-to-human MPXV respiratory transmission appears to be low; however, studies should continue to assess this possibility.

Making Sense of Monkeypox: A Comparison of Other Poxviruses to the Monkeypox

The current monkeypox (MPX) outbreak has been declared a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO). It is a zoonotic disease that has persisted in the African basin for decades but suddenly exploded into the international sphere this year. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive overview of monkeypox, including a hypothesis of the rapid spread of the virus, its epidemiology and clinical features, a comparison with other orthopoxviruses such as chickenpox and smallpox, past and present outbreaks, and strategies for its prevention and treatment.

Monkeypox (Mpox) and Occupational Exposure

Recently, there has been a significant increase in interest in biological risk factors, which are increasingly perceived as an important problem in occupational medicine. Exposure to harmful biological agents may be associated with the deliberate use of microorganisms in the work process or with unintentional exposure resulting from the presence of biological risk factors in the work environment. Monkeypox (mpox) is a viral infectious disease that may afflict humans and non-human primates. Since May 2022, mpox has occurred in Europe, North and South America, Asia, Australia and Africa, with some 76,713 cases (75,822 in locations that have not historically reported mpox) and 29 total deaths reported to date. Between 2018 and 2021, several cases of mpox were reported worldwide in high-income countries (Israel, Singapore, United Kingdom, United States: Texas and Maryland). We conducted a literature search in PubMed and Google Scholar web databases for occupational exposure to mpox. The highest work-related risk for mpox transmission has been noted among healthcare professionals, people working with animals, and sex workers. There is general agreement that a paramount issue to avoid transmission of infection in occupational settings is an appropriate decontamination of often-touched surfaces and usage of appropriate personal protective equipment by the workers at high risk of infection. The group that should especially protect themselves and be educated in the field of early symptoms of the disease and prevention are dentists, who are often the first to detect the symptoms of the disease on the oral mucosa.

Human mpox: Biology, epidemiology, therapeutic options, and development of small molecule inhibitors

Although monkeypox (mpox) has been endemic in Western and Central Africa for 50 years, it has not received sufficient prophylactic and therapeutical attention to avoid evolving into an epidemic. From January 2022 to January 2023, more than 84,000 of mpox cases were reported from 110 countries worldwide. Case numbers appear to be rising every day, making mpox an increasing global public health threat for the foreseeable future. In this perspective, we review the known biology and epidemiology of mpox virus, together with the latest therapeutic options available for mpox treatment. Further, small molecule inhibitors against mpox virus and the future directions in this field are discussed as well.

Monkeypox virus: past and present

BACKGROUND

The objective of this paper is to analyze the current status of monkeypox worldwide. In the face of this public health threat, our purpose is to elucidate the clinical characteristics and epidemiology of monkeypox, the developmental progress of monkeypox-related drugs and the vaccines available.

DATA SOURCES

The literature review was performed in databases including PubMed, Science Direct and Google Scholar up to July 2022.

RESULTS

Since May 2022, the World Health Organization has reported more than 45,000 confirmed cases from 92 nonendemic countries, including nine deaths. Although some women and children have been infected so far, most cases have occurred among men who have sex with other men, especially those with multiple sexual partners or anonymous sex.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric monkeypox infection has been associated with a higher likelihood of severe illness and mortality than in adults. Severe monkeypox illness in pediatrics often requires adjunctive antiviral therapy. It is crucial for all countries to establish sound monitoring and testing systems and be prepared with emergency preparedness.

Monkeypox virus: A review

While monkeypox was previously found in Africa, the bulk of occurrences in the present outbreak are being reported in many countries. It is not yet known how this outbreak began, and as the COVID-19 crisis begins to abate, numerous nations throughout the world are now contending with a novel outbreak. Monkeypox is a transmissible virus between animals and humans, belonging to the Orthopoxvirus genus of the Poxviridae family. In the 1970s, cases of monkeypox began increasing due to the cessation of vaccination against smallpox, which drew international attention. The virus was named monkeypox because it was first observed in macaque monkeys. It is thought to be transmitted by several different rodents and small mammals, though the origin of the virus is not known. Monkeypox, while occasionally transmitted from one human to another, can be disseminated through the inhalation of droplets or through contact with the skin lesions of an infected individual. Unfortunately, there is no definitive cure for monkeypox; however, supportive care can be offered to ameliorate its symptoms. In severe cases, medications like tecovirimat may be administered. However, there are no established guidelines for symptom management in monkeypox cases. In this article we have discussed about different aspects of monkeypox including viral structure, transmission, replication, clinical manifestations, vaccination, treatment and current prevalence in the world to understand it better and give insight to the future studies.

An overview on monkeypox virus: Pathogenesis, transmission, host interaction and therapeutics

Orthopoxvirus is one of the most notorious genus amongst the Poxviridae family. Monkeypox (MP) is a zoonotic disease that has been spreading throughout Africa. The spread is global, and incidence rates are increasing daily. The spread of the virus is rapid due to human-to-human and animals-to-human transmission. World Health Organization (WHO) has declared monkeypox virus (MPV) as a global health emergency. Since treatment options are limited, it is essential to know the modes of transmission and symptoms to stop disease spread. The information from host-virus interactions revealed significantly expressed genes that are important for the progression of the MP infection. In this review, we highlighted the MP virus structure, transmission modes, and available therapeutic options. Furthermore, this review provides insights for the scientific community to extend their research work in this field.

Emergence of monkeypox: a worldwide public health crisis

The human monkeypox virus (MPV), a zoonotic illness that was hitherto solely prevalent in Central and West Africa, has lately been discovered to infect people all over the world and has become a major threat to global health. Humans unintentionally contract this zoonotic orthopoxvirus, which resembles smallpox, when they come into contact with infected animals. Studies show that the illness can also be transferred through frequent proximity, respiratory droplets, and household linens such as towels and bedding. However, MPV infection does not presently have a specified therapy. Smallpox vaccinations provide cross-protection against MPV because of antigenic similarities. Despite scant knowledge of the genesis, epidemiology, and ecology of the illness, the incidence and geographic distribution of monkeypox outbreaks have grown recently. Polymerase chain reaction technique on lesion specimens can be used to detect MPV. Vaccines like ACAM2000, vaccinia immune globulin intravenous (VIG-IV), and JYNNEOS (brand name: Imvamune or Imvanex) as well as FDA-approved antiviral medications such as brincidofovir (brand name: Tembexa), tecovirimat (brand name: TPOXX or ST-246), and cidofovir (brand name: Vistide) are used as therapeutic medications against MPV. In this overview, we provide an outline of the MPV's morphology, evolution, mechanism, transmission, diagnosis, preventative measures, and therapeutic approaches. This study offers the fundamental information required to prevent and manage any further spread of this emerging virus.

The monkeypox diagnosis, treatments and prevention: A review

The world is currently dealing with a second viral outbreak, monkeypox, which has the potential to become an epidemic after the COVID-19 pandemic. People who reside in or close to forest might be exposed indirectly or at a low level, resulting in subclinical disease. However, the disease has lately emerged in shipped African wild mice in the United States. Smallpox can cause similar signs and symptoms to monkeypox, such as malaise, fever, flu-like signs, headache, distinctive rash, and back pain. Because Smallpox has been eliminated, similar symptoms in a monkeypox endemic zone should be treated cautiously. Monkeypox is transmitted to humans primarily via interaction with diseased animals. Infection through inoculation via interaction with skin or scratches and mucosal lesions on the animals is conceivable significantly once the skin barrier is disrupted by scratches, bites, or other disturbances or trauma. Even though it is clinically unclear from other pox-like infections, laboratory diagnosis is essential. There is no approved treatment for human monkeypox virus infection, however, smallpox vaccination can defend counter to the disease. Human sensitivity to monkeypox virus infection has grown after mass vaccination was discontinued in the 1980s. Infection may be prevented by reducing interaction with sick patients or animals and reducing respiratory exposure among people who are infected.

Epidemiological Review on Monkeypox

The significant increase in monkeypox cases that was reported at the beginning of 2022 was notable. The resurgence of viral zoonosis is especially concerning, given the current and recent COVID-19 epidemic. There are worries that a new pandemic may be beginning due to the virus that causes monkeypox spreading so quickly. This article aimed to provide an overview of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and clinical symptoms of monkeypox. It has been known that monkeypox was primarily prevalent in Central and West Africa, but in recent years, cases of monkeypox infections have been reported around the world. The transmission of the infection to humans has been connected to exposure to a diseased animal or person's excretions and secretions. Various studies indicate that monkeypox clinically manifests as fever, fatigue, and a rash of smallpox-like lesions and can cause various complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and sepsis, which, when not properly managed, can lead to death. Those living in remote and forested areas, taking care of individuals infected with monkeypox, and trading and taking care of exotic animals are some of the risk factors for monkeypox. Men having sex with men are also at higher risk of contracting monkeypox. When dealing with individuals who have high-risk factors and come with new-onset progressive rashes, it is necessary for clinicians to highly suspect monkeypox. This review will serve as reference material and a supplement to the existing literature that will assist in the proper management and prevention of monkeypox.

A Comprehensive Review of the Current Monkeypox Outbreak

Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease caused by an orthopoxvirus named monkeypox virus. The virus was identified in 1958, while the first human monkeypox case was discovered in 1970. Monkeypox caused a wide outbreak that was considered a global health emergency in July 2022. Monkeypox is transmitted through direct or indirect contact with the lesions and respiratory droplets. Animals can also transmit the disease if contacted without protection or if their products are consumed without proper processing. The disease presents as a prodromal period followed by the appearance of a rash filled with exudate. The rash appears initially on the face and then spreads to involve the genital area and the anus. Typically, the disease is mild and resolves spontaneously, but antiviral therapy with tecovirimat might be required. Monkeypox can be controlled by avoiding contact with the cases and vaccinating those at high risk for acquiring the infection and those at high risk for developing severe illness (immune deficient individuals, pregnant women, and children). Our review aims to comprehensively review the current literature regarding Monkeypox, including modes of transmission, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, preventive measures, and epidemiology.

Global Epidemiological Features of Human Monkeypox Cases and Their Associations With Social-Economic Level and International Travel Arrivals: A Systematic Review and Ecological Study

Objectives: We aimed to evaluate global epidemiological features of human monkeypox (mpox) cases and their associations with social-economic level and international travel arrivals. Methods: We estimated the pooled value by random-effects models. Then, we conducted an ecological study to evaluate the relationship of confirmed cases with social-economic indices and international travel arrivals using correlation analyses. Results: The average age (2022: 35.52, 95% CI [28.09, 42.94] vs. before 2022: 18.38, 95% CI [14.74, 22.02]) and comorbidity rate (2022: 15.7%, 95% CI [8.9%, 22.4%] vs. before 2022: 14.9%, 95% CI [8.5%, 21.3%]) of mpox cases in the 2022 human mpox outbreak were significantly higher than those of cases before 2022. During the 2022 mpox outbreak, the proportion of men who have sex with men (MSM) was high (79.8%, 95% CI [65.5%, 94.2%]). The number of confirmed mpox cases in 2022 significantly correlated with high social-economic levels and international travel arrivals (all p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our findings highlighted the importance of early surveillance and timely detection in high-risk populations, including older people, MSM, and travelers, which is crucial to curb the wide transmission of mpox.

A Review on Zoonotic Pathogens Associated with Non-Human Primates: Understanding the Potential Threats to Humans

Non-human primates (NHP) share a close relationship with humans due to a genetic homology of 75-98.5%. NHP and humans have highly similar tissue structures, immunity, physiology, and metabolism and thus often can act as hosts to the same pathogens. Agriculture, meat consumption habits, tourism development, religious beliefs, and biological research have led to more extensive and frequent contact between NHPs and humans. Deadly viruses, such as rabies virus, herpes B virus, Marburg virus, Ebola virus, human immunodeficiency virus, and monkeypox virus can be transferred from NHP to humans. Similarly, herpes simplex virus, influenza virus, and yellow fever virus can be transmitted to NHP from humans. Infectious pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites, can affect the health of both primates and humans. A vast number of NHP-carrying pathogens exhibit a risk of transmission to humans. Therefore, zoonotic infectious diseases should be evaluated in future research. This article reviews the research evidence, diagnostic methods, prevention, and treatment measures that may be useful in limiting the spread of several common viral pathogens via NHP and providing ideas for preventing zoonotic diseases with epidemic potential.

Current Insights into Diagnosis, Prevention Strategies, Treatment, Therapeutic Targets, and Challenges of Monkeypox (Mpox) Infections in Human Populations

In the wake of the emergence and worldwide respread of a viral infection called Monkeypox (Mpox), there is a serious threat to the health and safety of the global population. This viral infection was endemic to the western and central parts of Africa, but has recently spread out of this endemic area to various countries, including the United Kingdom (UK), Portugal, Spain, the United States of America (USA), Canada, Sweden, Belgium, Italy, Australia, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Israel, and Mexico. This is a timely review focusing on recent findings and developments in the epidemiology, clinical features, therapeutic targets, diagnosis, prevention mechanisms, research challenges and possible treatment for Mpox. To date (29 November 2022), there have been around 81,225 reported cases of Mpox. In most cases, this illness is mild; however, there is a fatality rate ranging from 1 to 10%, which might be increased due to associated complications and/or secondary infections. There is a real challenge in the diagnosis of Mpox, since its symptoms are very similar to those of other infections, including smallpox and chickenpox. Generally, to prevent/limit the risk and transmission of Mpox, the detection and isolation of infected individuals, as well as hand hygiene and cleanliness, are essential and effective approaches to control/combat this viral infection. Nevertheless, updated information about Mpox from different angles is lacking. Thus, this review provides updated and comprehensive information about the Mpox illness, which should highlight the global burden, pathogenicity, symptoms, diagnosis, prevention measures and possible treatment of this emerging disease.

A randomized phase 3 trial to assess the immunogenicity and safety of 3 consecutively produced lots of freeze-dried MVA-BN® vaccine in healthy adults

Since vaccination remains the only effective protection against orthopox virus-induced diseases such as smallpox or monkeypox, the strategic use and stockpiling of these vaccines remains of significant public health importance. The approved liquid-frozen formulation of Bavarian Nordic's Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA-BN) smallpox vaccine has specific cold-chain requirements, while the freeze-dried (FD) formulation of this vaccine provides more flexibility in terms of storage conditions and shelf life. In this randomized phase 3 trial, the immunogenicity and safety of 3 consecutively manufactured lots of the FD MVA-BN vaccine was evaluated. A total of 1129 healthy adults were randomized to 3 treatment groups (lots 1 to 3) and received 2 vaccinations 4 weeks apart. For both neutralizing and total antibodies, a robust increase of geometric mean titer (GMT) was observed across all lot groups 2 weeks following the second vaccination, comparable to published data. For the primary results, the ratios of the neutralizing antibody GMTs between the lot group pairs ranged from 0.936 to 1.115, with confidence ratios well within the pre-specified margin of equivalence. Results for total antibodies were similar. In addition, seroconversion rates were high across the 3 lots, ranging between 99.1 % and 99.7 %. No safety concerns were identified; particularly, no inflammatory cardiac disorders were detected. The most common local solicited adverse events (AEs) reported across lot groups were injection site pain (87.2%) and erythema (73.2%), while the most common general solicited adverse events were myalgia, fatigue, and headache in 40.6% to 45.5% of all participants, with no meaningful differences among the lot groups. No related serious AEs were reported. In conclusion, the data demonstrate consistent and robust immunogenicity and safety results with a freeze-dried formulation of MVA-BN. Clinical Trial Registry Number: NCT03699124.

Protective immunity rate against monkeypox: expectation for present and future in case that there is no smallpox vaccine booster

OBJECTIVES

Monkeypox is now regarded as a major global public health concern. A common symptom of this disease is an acute febrile illness with skin sores. The likelihood of the virus spreading from person to person is increasing. The aim of the present study is to estimate the protective immunity rate against monkeypox.

METHODS

Based on the current situation in Africa, the authors forecast the protective immunity rate against monkeypox for the present and future if a smallpox vaccination booster is not available. The clinical mathematical model was used. The primary data for analysis include data on the current serological rate against smallpox and data on the declining rate of smallpox immunity after the last vaccination.

RESULTS

According to the current clinical modeling study, protective immunity to monkeypox is limited. The rate among people who have previously been immunized against smallpox is still higher than the general population rate. If the present monkeypox outbreak (2022) is not successfully controlled, there could be a severe public health danger, such as a pandemic. On a larger scale, in a few years, no immunity will be a concern.

CONCLUSIONS

To suppress the current monkeypox outbreak, it may be necessary to research the use of a novel monkeypox immunization or a traditional smallpox vaccine.

Monkeypox: potential vaccine development strategies

A multicountry outbreak of monkeypox has gained global attention. Basic research including structural and immunological investigation on monkeypox virus (MPXV) is central to design effective solutions of treatment with antivirals and appropriate vaccines. We summarize some information about this virus and its re-emergence and the current vaccines that are proposed to limit its spread and present some possible avenues for developing new vaccines.

Monkeypox Virus and Other Emerging Outbreaks: An Overview and Future Perspective

Monkeypox (MPX) is a zoonotic disease caused by the MPX virus from the poxviridae family of orthopoxviruses. Typically, endemic in central and west Africa, it has now become a matter of concern since cases have been reported in non-endemic countries around mid-June 2022, especially in the European region, with the transmission not related to travel. The diagnosis is made by PCR testing of the skin lesions. Even though treatment is symptomatic, antiretrovirals, such as tecovirimat, are used in severe cases. Vaccination with second and third generation vaccines is approved for prophylaxis in high risk individuals. Unfortunately, these options of treatment and prevention are only available in high income countries at the moment. This review, through a thorough literature search of articles from 2017 onward, focuses on epidemiology, clinical manifestations, challenges, treatment, prevention and control of MPX virus and how they can be corelated with other viral outbreaks including COVID-19, Acute Hepatitis of unknown origin, Measles and Dengue, to better predict and therefore prevent its transmission. The previous COVID-19 pandemic increased the disease burden on healthcare infrastructure of low-middle income countries, therefore, this recent MPX outbreak calls for a joint effort from healthcare authorities, political figures, and NGOs to combat the disease and prevent its further spread not only in high income but also in middle- and low-income countries.