Occupational Monkeypox Virus Transmission to Healthcare Worker, California, USA, 2022

Abstract

Risk for transmission of monkeypox virus (MPXV) (clade IIb) to healthcare workers (HCWs) is low. Although many cases have been reported among HCW, only a few have been occupationally acquired. We report a case of non–needle stick MPXV transmission to an HCW in the United States.

Case Report and Literature Review of Occupational Transmission of Monkeypox Virus to Healthcare Workers, South Korea

“…Because PCR is highly sensitive, a positive result can be obtained when samples are collected by using this method. Third, although tecovirimat is generally recommended for patients with severe mpox or high risk of dissemination ( 10 ), the drug was administered to our patient, who had localized infection, to prevent disease progression; prompt administration of tecovirimat might be necessary to maximize effectiveness. Most patients with mpox report extreme pain in the affected area.…”

“…Lesions developed on the hands and wrists of the other 2 HCWs, and the mode of transmission was likely fomite contact with bare skin. The HCW from California ( 10 ) was immunocompromised and worked in a clinic where patients with mpox regularly visited; unrecognized exposure and spread might have occurred through respiratory droplets.…”

“…Cases of HCWs who were confirmed to have monkeypox virus infections obtained through needlestick injuries or contact with a contaminated environment while collecting patient specimens have been reported recently in several countries ( 5 – 10 ). The first imported case of mpox was reported in South Korea in June 2022 ( 11 ).…”

Nosocomial transmission of MPOX virus to health care workers –an emerging occupational hazard: A case report and review of the literature

“…In spite of these reassuring previous findings, reports of HCP occupational infections are emerging monthly since July 2022 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 . Here, we characterized a case of nosocomial transmission of MPOX virus using molecular typing, and review the current literature.…”

Infection prevention and control measures to reduce the transmission of mpox: a systematic review

“…60,61,67,72,78,79,84,86,88,89,92,94,97,98,104,109,111,112,113,114,115,122,126), 8 studies from North America(17,46,64,70, 85,93,106,107), and 3 studies from South America(30,71,103). 11 studies reported on cases acquired from multiple world regions(16,34,41,59,63,65,87,91,110,117,119), and 6 studies did not report the country of infection acquisition(68,75,96,105,108,118)....…”