What is MPOX (formerly known as monkeypox)?
MPOX is a viral disease that is caused by infection with monkeypox virus.
The disease is endemic in parts of Central and West Africa, and outbreaks typically occur in populations living in rural areas who hunt, handle, and consume bushmeat. MPOX cases have been reported outside of Africa linked to international travel or importation of animals.
Since May 2022, there have been reports of MPOX cases in several regions of the world, including some cases with no or unknown travel history to MPOX endemic countries and occurring in men who have sex with men (MSM).
MSM is not currently a known risk factor for MPOX transmission. While there have been cases identified among MSM, anyone can be infected through close or direct contact. Investigations are ongoing to understand where and how the cases acquired their infections.