Monkeypox (Mpox) in 2024: Epidemiology, Prevention, and Response

Monkeypox, or mpox, has emerged as a significant global health concern, with rising incidence and new outbreaks in 2024. This report synthesizes the latest data on epidemiology, transmission, prevention, and treatment, with a focus on Indonesia and global public health strategies.

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1. Introduction

Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus within the Poxviridae family, similar to the virus that causes smallpox . First identified in 1958 in research monkeys, the first human case was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo . Transmission occurs from animals to humans and between humans, primarily through direct contact and respiratory droplets.

2. Key Findings

2.1 Epidemiology and Transmission

  • Monkeypox is a zoonotic infection caused by the Monkeypox virus (MPXV), a double-stranded DNA virus in the Orthopoxvirus genus .
  • Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected animals or humans, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials .
Figure 1. Confirmed Monkeypox Cases in Indonesia (2022–2024)

2.2 Symptoms and Clinical Presentation

  • Initial symptoms resemble influenza: fever, headache, muscle and back pain, extreme fatigue, chills, and swollen lymph nodes .
  • Symptoms typically appear 6–13 days after exposure, with a skin eruption phase following systemic symptoms .
Figure 2. Prevalence of Common Monkeypox Symptoms

2.3 Prevention and Vaccination

  • The JYNNEOS vaccine, a third-generation vaccine based on a live, attenuated orthopoxvirus, is recommended for high-risk individuals and is administered in two doses 28 days apart .
  • Indonesia has ordered 2,000 doses of the monkeypox vaccine, prioritizing healthcare workers and immunocompromised individuals .
Figure 3. Monkeypox Vaccine Doses Ordered in Indonesia (2022–2024)

2.4 Treatment Options

  • Antiviral treatments such as tecovirimat, brincidofovir, and cidofovir are available for severe cases requiring hospitalization .

3. Comparative Analysis of Monkeypox Vaccines

Vaccine Approval Status Doses Required Availability Safety Profile
JYNNEOS FDA-approved for emergency use 2 doses Limited Preferred due to safety
ACAM2000 Not approved for emergency use 1 dose More widely available More side effects
Table 1. Comparison of JYNNEOS and ACAM2000 Monkeypox Vaccines

4. Conclusions & Future Outlook

The ongoing global spread of monkeypox underscores the critical need for effective public health strategies, including vaccination and antiviral treatments. The JYNNEOS vaccine remains the preferred option due to its safety profile and FDA approval for emergency use in high-risk populations . As the situation evolves, continuous monitoring and adaptation of public health policies will be essential to mitigate the impact of monkeypox outbreaks. Further research into the virus's transmission dynamics and vaccine efficacy will be crucial in informing future prevention and treatment strategies.

5. Methodology

This report synthesizes data from peer-reviewed publications, official health organization reports, and government sources published between 2022 and 2024. Data on confirmed cases, vaccine orders, and clinical management were obtained from the World Health Organization, Indonesian Ministry of Health, and CDC. Visualizations were created using Plotly.js for clarity and interactivity.