The implications of Mpox for healthcare Providers: Understanding transmission, clinical presentation, and infection control

Abstract

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a zoonotic viral disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. Since the 2022 global outbreak, the virus has been increasingly reported in non-endemic regions, with evidence supporting person-to-person transmission, including through sexual contact. By August 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to its rapid international spread. This review synthesizes the current understanding of Mpox transmission dynamics, clinical presentation, and the role of healthcare providers, including clinicians, dentists, and nurses, in its detection and control. A narrative review was conducted using scientific literature indexed in PubMed, WHO reports, and CDC guidelines from 2017 to 2024. The review highlights the need for increased awareness of atypical presentations, including oral and genital lesions, which may initially be misdiagnosed. Special emphasis is placed on the responsibilities of dental and clinical professionals in early detection, infection prevention, and patient education. As cases continue to appear globally, a comprehensive understanding of Mpox is crucial to protect both patients and healthcare workers. • Sexual Transmission: Monkeypox spreads via sexual contact, especially in MSM, often with coexisting STIs like HIV/syphilis. • Symptoms: Fever, headache, painful perianal/genital/oral lesions—early detection is key. • Dentists’ Role: First to spot oral signs; need infection control & prevention education. • Clinicians’ Duty: Detailed history, outbreak awareness & strict infection control in clinics/hospitals. • Public Health: Focus on LGBTQ+ awareness & prevention to curb global spread.