Mpox (Monkeypox): A Comprehensive Review of Etiology, Epidemiology, Transmission, Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Abstract

Introduction: The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge about mpox (monkeypox), its etiology, epidemiology, transmission, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. 

Materials and Methods: A literature review was conducted in the PubMed database using the keywords: “monkeypox”, “mpox”, “MPXV”, “tecovirimat”, “VIGIV”, “brincidofovir”, and “cidofovir”. We also used institutional websites: World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Public Health England (PHE), and European Medicines Agency (EMA). All online resources were accessed in May 2025 and verified to be the most up-to-date at the time of analysis.

Summary: Mpox (monkeypox) is a zoonotic disease endemic in some regions of Central and West Africa. It is caused by monkeypox virus (MPXV). In May 2022, a large outbreak involving most EU/EEA (The European Union/European Economic Area) countries was announced. The mpox symptoms are divided into two phases: the prodrome (1 to 5 days) and the rash. The chosen method for detecting MPXV is nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), such as real-time or conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR). For most patients, treatment is mainly supportive and symptomatic. Antiviral therapies such as tecovirimat, brincidofovir, cidofovir or vaccinia immune globulin intravenous (VIGIV) are reserved for patients with severe disease or those at high risk of complications. Mpox prevention includes isolation, public health control measures, and vaccination (both pre-and post-exposure).

Conclusions: Accurate recognition of mpox symptoms is crucial to helping control outbreaks. Swift diagnosis, surveillance, and access to treatments and vaccines are keys to effective management.