Monkeypox: A review of a zoonotic disease of global public health concern

Abstract

Background: The rising circulation of the monkeypox virus while the COVID-19 is still ongoing in non-endemic countries is a significant global health threat. In this article, we have discussed the epidemiology, aetiology, and pathogenesis of the monkeypox virus to provide our current knowledge of the disease. Also, we discussed the ongoing efforts of the international health organizations to curtail the present epidemic and we finally provide recommendations for early detection and response. Methods: We did a rapid literature search on PubMed, EMBASE, World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other trusted databases for recent articles (1958-2022) published in English—focusing on the outbreaks of monkeypox disease, epidemiology, pathogenesis, aetiology, prevention, and control in endemic and non-endemic countries. Keywords such as "Monkeypox", "Monkeypox virus", "Poxviridae", "Orthopoxvirus", "Smallpox", and "Smallpox Vaccine" were considered in our search based on MESH medical subject headings. Results: Our review highlights four important findings. First, a cumulative of 1285 monkeypox cases have been documented and reported by the WHO in non-endemic countries as of June 8, 2022. Second, international travel contributes to the increase in cases in non-endemic countries. Third, the origin of the outbreak, the pattern of transmission, and the risk of infections is not fully understood. Fourth, there is an ongoing effort by the WHO, CDC, and other international health organization to control the spread of the monkeypox disease. Conclusion: Our findings underline the need to reassess research priorities on the origin, transmission pattern, and risk factors for infection of monkeypox. Also, we provide recommendations under the One Health spectrum to prevent further spread of the disease.

Current knowledge of human Mpox viral infection among healthcare workers in Cameroon calls for capacity-strengthening for pandemic preparedness

“…This finding suggests that, in such a context, the infection can spread unnoticed in the community without being detected/reported timeously. Therefore, strategies for enhancing the knowledge of HCWs on the detection and management of zoonotic Mpox are needed, including sensitization of HCWs via online platforms to respond adequately to such outbreaks ( 37 ). These strategies are particularly important as they resonate with the One Health approach for sustainable infection prevention and control ( 38 ).…”

Global Mapping and Visualization Analysis of One Health Knowledge in the COVID-19 Context

“…Therefore, effectively combating new disease threats necessitates collaborative efforts through the framework of One Health. 81 , 99 The significance of the One Health approach in combating future pandemics lies from its focus on early detection and surveillance, comprehension of disease transmission, 100 , 101 preventing zoonotic disease outbreaks, stimulating interdisciplinary collaboration, along with making environmental protection a priority. 99 The early detection and surveillance systems play a crucial role in effective containment and control.…”

The Global Health Threat of Monkeypox Virus: Understanding Its Biology, Transmission, and Potential Therapeutic Interventions

“…8 Animal-to-human transmission can occur through bites or scratches from infected animals, as well as during activities like hunting, skinning, trapping, cooking, playing with carcasses, or consuming animals. 25 The extent of viral circulation in animal populations is not fully understood, prompting ongoing studies.…”