Dr. Steven Karim has warned that sex workers, men who have sex with men (MSM), and truckers are among the groups most vulnerable to Mpox infection due to the nature of the virus’s transmission.
In a recent statement, Dr. Karim explained that Mpox is increasingly recognized as a sexually transmitted infection, placing certain sub-populations at heightened risk.
“Sex workers are at a higher risk,” he noted. “Similarly, men engaging in sexual activity with other men are vulnerable, as observed in regions like South Africa.”
He further emphasized that truckers are at significant risk due to their frequent cross-border movements, which may expose them to outbreak areas. Healthcare workers caring for Mpox patients also face elevated risks, along with individuals who have direct contact with infected persons.
“Everyone living in a region experiencing Mpox outbreaks must remain vigilant,” Dr. Karim said, stressing that while some groups are more vulnerable, the entire population is potentially at risk.
Mpox, previously known as Monkey pox, is a viral disease that has evolved from being primarily zoonotic to showing signs of human-to-human transmission, including sexual transmission. Initially endemic in parts of Africa, recent outbreaks have spread to other regions, raising public health concerns globally.
Health authorities emphasize the importance of targeted education, testing, and vaccination for high-risk groups to curb transmission.
