Monkeypox outbreak in the Tel Aviv District, Israel, 2022. (March 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sheffer, Rivka; Savion, Michal; Nuss, Naama; Amitai, Ziva; Salama, Matanelle
• Is Part Of: International journal of infectious diseases. Volume 128(2023)
• Page Start: 88
• Page End: 90
• Publication Date: 2023-03
• Subjects: Monkeypox -- Monkeypox outbreak -- Epidemiology; Communicable diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable Diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable diseases; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 616.9
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2022.12.023
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1201-9712

Abstract

Highlights: First report of local transmission of monkeypox in Israel. All cases were men, most of which were men having sex with men. Public health response, such as community outreach, decreased transmission. Abstract: Objectives: From May-September 2022, 203 cases of monkeypox (MPX) were reported in the Tel Aviv (TA) District, Israel. We aim to report the first ongoing local transmission of MPX in Israel. Methods: We analyzed the epidemiologic and clinical features of all cases of MPX notified to the TA District. Each case was contacted to verify the source of infection and locate potential contacts. Results: All cases were men; 195 (96%) were among men having sex with men, and 171 (84%) resided in the city of TA. Median age was 35 years. One case occurred in a healthcare worker. All cases had a self-limiting disease. Conclusion: A combined public health campaign with vaccination against MPX of high-risk individuals leads to a decrease in disease rates. Enhanced surveillance and prevention among susceptible populations are warranted.