Berlin: Mpox Spreads to Additional Groups
So far, the disease has mainly affected men who have sex with men and who frequently change partners. Now a new development is causing concern among experts.
In Berlin, the transmission of Mpox through sex between men and women has been increasing, according to a recent report by the city's State Office for Health and Social Affairs. Four cases among women were reported in August, along with two infections among men. These infections are believed to have occurred during anonymous sexual encounters, either in clubs or at home.
This marks a significant shift from previous years, where Mpox primarily affected men who have sex with men. The total number of Mpox cases in Berlin this year has reached 156, surpassing the same period last year and the total cases in 2024 and 2023. The Robert Koch Institute has recorded 375 Mpox cases in Germany so far this year, with nearly all patients being men.
Claudia Ruscher, an infectious disease epidemiologist at Lageso, expressed concern over the spread of Mpox to a previously unaffected group, as they are less vaccinated and informed. The severity of the disease is heightened for those who are unvaccinated, often leading to more severe symptoms and painful skin lesions. Mpox is transmitted through close physical contact, particularly during sex, and the main risk of infection comes from contact with skin changes, such as blisters or scabs.
A vaccine against Mpox exists, and it is recommended for high-risk groups, including men who have sex with men, transgender individuals, sex workers, and people who have contact with infected individuals. The vaccine is highly effective and well-tolerated.
Written by urgent.news from The Berlin Spectator's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
