“Since 2022, the epidemiology of monkeypox has evolved dramatically, with over 129,000 confirmed cases reported across 130 countries by early 2025!” This unprecedented spread highlights the importance of understanding the virus’s transmission, affected populations, and ongoing control efforts.
What Is the Epidemiology of Monkeypox?
The epidemiology of monkeypox involves studying the distribution, patterns, and determinants of monkeypox virus infections worldwide. Monkeypox (mpox) is a zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), first identified in monkeys in 1958 and in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Historically, monkeypox was endemic to Central and West Africa, with two main viral clades:
- Clade I (Central African): More severe, with higher fatality rates, primarily transmitted through contact with infected animals or humans.
- Clade II (West African): Generally causes milder disease, responsible for the 2022 global outbreak.
Global Spread and Current Situation
Since 2022, monkeypox has expanded beyond endemic regions, causing outbreaks in over 120 countries, including many where the virus was previously unreported. The global outbreak is dominated by clade IIb, spreading mainly through close, often sexual, contact in specific networks.
- As of January 2025, over 129,000 confirmed cases and 283 deaths were reported globally.
- The African Region continues to report the majority of cases, with sustained transmission in 18 countries.
- Other regions, including the Americas, Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Western Pacific, have experienced varying trends, with some recent declines in cases.
- New subclades like clade Ib have emerged in Central and East Africa, showing ongoing transmission and occasional international spread.
Transmission Dynamics
Monkeypox spreads through:
- Direct contact with infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids.
- Respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact.
- Contact with contaminated materials such as bedding.
- Animal-to-human transmission via bites or handling infected animals.
The 2022–2025 outbreak highlighted the role of close physical and sexual contact, particularly among men who have sex with men, in sustaining transmission chains.
Epidemiological Features by Region
- Africa: Endemic with sporadic outbreaks, primarily clade I and Ib, affecting children and adults.
- Europe and Americas: Large outbreaks linked to clade IIb, with community transmission and travel-associated cases.
- Asia and Middle East: Emerging cases with increasing surveillance and response measures.
Public Health Response and Control Measures
- Vaccination campaigns using MVA-BN vaccine have been rolled out in 11 African countries and other affected regions. Over 731,000 doses administered to date.
- Updated WHO guidelines focus on clinical management, infection prevention, and control.
- Ongoing surveillance, contact tracing, and community engagement remain critical to containing spread.
- The WHO continues to classify monkeypox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) as of mid-2025.
Actionable Insights for Health Professionals and the Public
- Maintain vigilance for monkeypox symptoms, especially in high-risk populations.
- Promote vaccination and education campaigns to reduce stigma and enhance prevention.
- Implement strict infection control in healthcare and community settings.
- Support research into virus evolution, transmission, and treatment options.
Final Thoughts: Staying Informed on the Epidemiology of Monkeypox
Understanding the epidemiology of monkeypox is vital for effective public health strategies and personal protection. The virus’s changing landscape demands continuous monitoring and adaptive responses worldwide.
For a detailed exploration of monkeypox transmission, prevention, and epidemiology, visit our comprehensive guide on epidemiology of monkeypox.
This article is based on the latest WHO and CDC data, providing a professional, educational overview of monkeypox’s global impact.