Mpox is a viral disease belonging to the same family as smallpox. Scientists first identified it in 1958 and was detected in lab monkeys used for research purposes.

The disease is most prevalent in Central and West Africa. However, in May 2022, health authorities reported an outbreak in multiple regions beyond Africa.

The virus can spread from person to person through close physical contact. An infected individual can pass it to others through exposure to body fluids, such as blood or semen. It can also be transmitted via direct contact with skin lesions caused by Mpox or by inhaling respiratory droplets from an infected person.