Monkeypox Does Not Spread Easily Through Air: CDC

Amid the global outbreak of mpox, the US CDC’s latest report provides clarity on its transmission, highlighting key differences from Covid-19. Unlike the coronavirus, the monkeypox virus (MPXV) does not easily spread through the air. The CDC’s study, which analyzed 113 individuals with mpox who traveled on 221 flights during 2021-22, revealed that none of the 1,046 passengers who were in contact with these individuals contracted the virus. This finding suggests that traveling on a flight with someone infected with mpox does not pose a significant exposure risk and does not necessitate routine contact tracing.

However, the CDC emphasizes that individuals with mpox should isolate themselves and delay travel until they are no longer infectious. The report also notes that mpox primarily spreads through close physical or intimate contact with infected individuals, particularly those with visible lesions. It is less commonly transmitted through respiratory secretions or contaminated surfaces.

The current outbreak is predominantly driven by the clade 1b strain, known for its increased transmissibility. Despite rising cases and deaths, particularly among children in Africa, mpox is not classified as an airborne disease. Nevertheless, close contact may still involve some risk from respiratory droplets. The outbreak has also spread to countries like Sweden and Thailand.