Monkeypox Virus (MPXV)

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is a double-stranded DNA virus in the Orthopoxvirus genus that causes mpox—a zoonotic disease formerly known as monkeypox. The term “mpox” was adopted by the World Health Organization in 2022 to reduce stigma and improve public communication, though MPXV remains the official scientific name of the virus.

MPXV includes two major clades: Clade I (Central Africa), which is linked to more severe disease, and Clade II (West Africa), including Clade IIb, responsible for the 2022–2023 global outbreak. Transmission occurs through close contact with lesions, bodily fluids, contaminated materials, and during pregnancy or birth. The virus is endemic in parts of Africa but has demonstrated the potential for global spread. Ongoing research focuses on viral evolution, host immune response, diagnostics, vaccines, antivirals, and understanding spillover dynamics.

Explore our latest articles to stay informed on the evolving science, surveillance, and countermeasures targeting MPXV to help prevent and treat mpox.