Category
Applied
Description
Introduction
Since 2022, Mpox outbreak trends have marked a shift in the epidemiology of the disease which has long been treated as a zoonotic infection. This is due to emerging patterns of cases of Mpox linked with sexual transmission, particularly in non-endemic regions reporting over 100,000 cases across 122 countries. This pattern has raised growing concerns regarding sexual transmission of Mpox necessitating further investigation.
Aim/Objective
This literature review examines current epidemiological, clinical/virological evidence to evaluate Mpox as an STI beyond labelling. and provides foundational context for a forthcoming systematic review examining priority populations affected during the 2022–2025 global outbreak.
Proposed Method
A review of the literature was conducted using peer-reviewed studies, expert reports, and outbreak investigations published between 2022 and 2025. Sources were identified through academic databases and grey literature. The review focused on research documenting sexual transmission patterns, viral detection, and genital lesions. Evidence from the literature was categorized based on its strength in supporting sexual transmission.
Preliminary Findings
Preliminary findings indicate strong epidemiologic clustering within sexual networks, especially MSM communities, with high rates of anogenital lesions and substantial co-infection with HIV and other STIs. Virological studies demonstrate frequent detection of mpox viral DNA in semen, vaginal swabs, and anal or urethral specimens, suggesting the plausibility of sexual transmission, though the infectiousness of semen remains under investigation. Clinical presentations during this outbreak often resembled traditional STIs, leading to misdiagnosis in early cases.
Conclusion
This literature review helps clarify the role of sexual contact in Mpox transmission and evaluates whether the current body of knowledge supports Mpox’s potential classification as an STI. The findings may help guide Mpox surveillance strategies, health education, and prevention efforts while emphasizing the need for stigma-free communication.
Key words: Mpox, STI, Sexually Transmitted Infection, Epidemiology, Virology, Outbreak
Beyond Labeling: Examining Mpox as a Sexually Transmitted Infection- ¿A Literature Review¿
Applied
Introduction
Since 2022, Mpox outbreak trends have marked a shift in the epidemiology of the disease which has long been treated as a zoonotic infection. This is due to emerging patterns of cases of Mpox linked with sexual transmission, particularly in non-endemic regions reporting over 100,000 cases across 122 countries. This pattern has raised growing concerns regarding sexual transmission of Mpox necessitating further investigation.
Aim/Objective
This literature review examines current epidemiological, clinical/virological evidence to evaluate Mpox as an STI beyond labelling. and provides foundational context for a forthcoming systematic review examining priority populations affected during the 2022–2025 global outbreak.
Proposed Method
A review of the literature was conducted using peer-reviewed studies, expert reports, and outbreak investigations published between 2022 and 2025. Sources were identified through academic databases and grey literature. The review focused on research documenting sexual transmission patterns, viral detection, and genital lesions. Evidence from the literature was categorized based on its strength in supporting sexual transmission.
Preliminary Findings
Preliminary findings indicate strong epidemiologic clustering within sexual networks, especially MSM communities, with high rates of anogenital lesions and substantial co-infection with HIV and other STIs. Virological studies demonstrate frequent detection of mpox viral DNA in semen, vaginal swabs, and anal or urethral specimens, suggesting the plausibility of sexual transmission, though the infectiousness of semen remains under investigation. Clinical presentations during this outbreak often resembled traditional STIs, leading to misdiagnosis in early cases.
Conclusion
This literature review helps clarify the role of sexual contact in Mpox transmission and evaluates whether the current body of knowledge supports Mpox’s potential classification as an STI. The findings may help guide Mpox surveillance strategies, health education, and prevention efforts while emphasizing the need for stigma-free communication.
Key words: Mpox, STI, Sexually Transmitted Infection, Epidemiology, Virology, Outbreak
