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Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is a zoonotic virus infection caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), a species of the genus Orthopoxvirus in the Poxviridae. Like the smallpox virus, but not quite as easily contagious, and usually less severe. Though once an endemic disease of parts of Central and West Africa, mpox has recently become a global public health issue following outbreaks beyond its traditional range.
The monkeypox virus is categorized into two distinct clades:
Mpox manifests through a characteristic rash, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and lymphadenopathy. The rash progresses through distinct stages:
The rash may be localized or widespread, commonly appearing on the face, palms, soles, and genital areas. In some cases, lesions may be confined to the genital or anal regions, particularly in sexually transmitted cases. Visit monkeypox virus detection services to explore advanced diagnostic solutions for mpox.
Symptoms of mpox vary in severity and presentation but often include:
Some individuals may exhibit only a localized rash or mild symptoms, making early detection crucial to prevent further spread.
Mpox transmission occurs through various pathways:
In 2024, global surveillance of mpox reveals several critical updates:
Mpox diagnoses must be supported by lab analysis. The best test is polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing that goes against viral DNA. Sample collection typically involves swabbing lesions. We do not usually advise blood tests as they have lower diagnostic accuracy.
Diagnostic testing must differentiate mpox from other conditions with similar presentations, such as chickenpox, syphilis, and herpes. Creative Biolabs offers advanced research tools, including monkepox virus PCR kits, to support accurate mpox detection.
For mpox, there are no approved antiviral drugs. Most mpox cases are mild and resolve in a few weeks with supportive treatment, involving symptom management, hydration and skin care to avoid complications. Patients who are very sick or pregnant should be treated with antiviral drugs like tecovirimat (TPOXX) or cidofovir/brincidofovir.
There's also Vaccinia immune globulin (VIG-IV), which is an antibody therapy that can be administered in some cases. These treatments are already approved for other viral infections, like smallpox, but ongoing research is evaluating their efficacy for mpox.
Creative Biolabs emphasizes our preclinical CRO services for mpox drug development and mpox vaccine development. Our commitment to advancing scientific understanding of mpox contributes to global efforts to mitigate its impact.
Prevention strategies focus on reducing exposure to the virus:
Avoid interaction with wild animals in endemic regions.
The World Health Organization (WHO) switched the name "monkeypox" to "mpox" in 2022 to reduce stigma and misperception. The revision falls in line with contemporary disease names, which do not reflect cultural, regional or social bias. "Mpox" is more neutral and is used to refer to the disease caused by the monkeypox virus.
While mpox can cause significant illness, especially in people with weakened immune systems or young children, the mortality rate is generally low. The case fatality rate for the Clade II strain, which is responsible for most recent outbreaks, is below 1%. However, Clade I has historically had higher mortality rates of up to 10%, though these have been much lower in recent outbreaks due to improved healthcare and early detection.
Currently, there is no specific cure for mpox. However, the disease often resolves on its own, and most cases are mild. Management typically involves supportive care. There are treatments available to reduce the severity of the disease in certain high-risk cases, though these are still under evaluation.
We DO NOT PROVIDE ANY PRODUCTS OR SERVICES DIRECTLY TO PATIENTS. All of our products are for Research Use Only (RUO), NOT intended for diagnostic, therapeutic, or clinical use.