Mpox basics
Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is caused by infection with mpox virus and has now been identified in dozens of non-endemic countries. This poxvirus is related to variola virus, which causes smallpox, and to the cowpox virus. Smallpox vaccines have shown to offer protection against monkeypox.
One vaccine has been approved to prevent mpox. It is made by Bavarian Nordic and called Jynneos in the United States, Imvamune in Canada, and Imvanex in Europe. Its generic name is MVA-BN.
The natural reservoir of mpox remains unknown, but African rodents and non-human primates such as monkeys may harbor the virus and infect people. Most recent cases outside of Africa have involved men who have sex with men, but the disease is not exclusive to that group.
- Monkeypox graphics
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