State-of-the-art on monkeypox virus: an emerging zoonotic disease

Abstract

The non-endemic monkeypox outbreak in 2022 is the largest outside of Africa in recorded history. The assumption is that monkeypox, an emerging zoonotic disease, has a high potential for epidemic spread with increased human outbreaks in recent years. The vaccinia-based smallpox vaccination has been discontinued globally for more than 40 years. Additionally, there are now more vulnerable populations. Populations who have not received the vaccine are more susceptible to monkeypox viral infection, while smallpox cannot spontaneously recur. As a member of the orthopoxvirus family and because of its potential for rapid adaptation in humans, the monkeypox virus (MPXV) has emerged as a pathogen that needs further study. Many non-endemic countries with no prior history of travel to an endemic region had increased global health concerns after the finding of MPXV cases in May 2022. Here, we summarize the clinical significance of MPXV and its unique infection characteristics. Finally, this review sheds light on worries regarding its resurgence in global health.

Keywords: Emerging or reemerging; Monkeypox virus; Poxviruses; Zoonosis.