Time Scales of Human Mpox Transmission in The Netherlands

Exposure histories of 109 pairs of mpox cases in the Netherlands were investigated. We identified 34 pairs where transmission was likely and the infectee reported a single potential infector with a mean serial interval of 10.1 days. Mpox has spread rapidly to many countries in nonendemic regions. After reviewing detailed exposure histories of 109 pairs of mpox cases in the Netherlands, we identified 34 pairs where transmission was likely and the infectee reported a single potential infector with a mean serial interval of 10.1 days (95% credible interval, 6.6-14.7 days). Further investigation into pairs from 1 regional public health service revealed that presymptomatic transmission may have occurred in 5 of 18 pairs. These findings emphasize that precaution remains key, regardless of the presence of recognizable symptoms of mpox.

Automated summary

Exposure histories of 109 pairs of mpox cases in the Netherlands were investigated, and 34 pairs were identified where transmission was likely and the infectee reported a single potential infector with a mean serial interval of 10.1 days. Mpox has spread rapidly to many countries in nonendemic regions. These findings emphasize the importance of precaution regardless of recognizable symptoms of mpox.