Mpox virus Clade IIb detection in the air

Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease endemic in Central and West Africa that is caused by the Mpox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus and Poxviridae family. The clinical manifestations of mpox infection are milder than those of smallpox, and the incubation time of mpox varies from 5 to 21 days. Since May 2022, the mpox outbreak (formerly known as monkeypox) has suddenly and unexpectedly spread in non-endemic countries, suggesting that there may have been some undetected transmissions. Based on molecular analysis, there are two major genetic clades that represent the mpox virus: Clade I (formerly the Congo Basin clade OR the Central African clade) and Clade II (formerly the West African clade). It is believed that people who are asymptomatic or paucisymptomatic may spread the mpox virus. Infectious viruses cannot be distinguished by PCR testing; therefore, virus culture should be carried out. Recent evidence regarding the detection of the mpox virus (Clade IIb) in air samples collected from the patient's environment during the 2022 mpox outbreak was reviewed. Further studies are needed to evaluate the extent to which the presence of mpox virus DNA in the air could affect immunocompromised patients in healthcare facilities, and further epidemiological studies are crucial, especially in Africa.

Automated summary

Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the Mpox virus, endemic in Central and West Africa. The mpox outbreak, previously known as monkeypox, has unexpectedly spread in non-endemic countries, suggesting undetected transmissions. Molecular analysis shows two major genetic clades of the mpox virus: Clade I (Congo Basin or Central African) and Clade II (West African). Asymptomatic or paucisymptomatic individuals can spread the virus. Virus culture is recommended for detection since infectious viruses cannot be distinguished by PCR testing. Recent evidence reviewed the detection of mpox virus in air samples during the 2022 outbreak. Further studies are needed to assess the impact of mpox virus DNA in the air on immunocompromised patients and conduct epidemiological studies in Africa.