Mpox: Travel Medicine and Infection Control

Due to the rapid spread of a new subtype, as well as the increasing number of monkeypox (Mpox) cases seen since 2022, the World Health Organization declared an emergency declaration. To prevent an Mpox outbreak, the risks of infection spread and protecting priority populations must be identified. Mpox virus is mainly transmitted sexually, via skin-to-skin contact, by touching contaminated objects and surfaces, and through airborne droplets and aerosols. Accordingly, men who have sex with men, sex workers, people who are HIV-positive, travelers, and healthcare workers are the main priority groups that are at risk of this virus. Two doses of vaccine are recommended for the risk groups. Moreover, travelers are recommended to receive two doses of vaccine prior to travel, unless contraindicated. Persons with symptoms and rashes suspicious of Mpox are not advised to travel. In healthcare facilities, patients with suspected Mpox should be isolated in single rooms, and healthcare workers should wear full protective equipment. Considering that transmission is possible through indirect contact, health workers should avoid direct contact with patients’ belongings, bed linen, and so on.

Keywords: Mpox; Mpox virus; Travel medicine; Infection control