Scientists Warn Mpox Could Become Significant Global Health Threat

Surrey, UK – Scientists at the University of Surrey have issued a stark warning: mpox, a viral infection traditionally spread from animals to humans, is showing alarming signs of sustained human-to-human transmission, potentially evolving into a serious global health threat.

In a letter published in Nature Medicine, researchers highlight the concerning shift in mpox transmission dynamics. “The most recent outbreaks show that intimate contact is now a significant way the virus spreads,” explained Carlos Maluquer de Motes, Reader in Molecular Virology at the University of Surrey. “That shift in how it’s transmitted is leading to longer transmission chains and lasting outbreaks.”¹

Mpox, caused by a virus related to smallpox, can cause a painful rash, fever, and swollen glands, and in severe cases, lead to serious illness.² The researchers note that the change in transmission coincided with the rapid spread of clade IIb mpox viruses, but now, different clade I variants are also on the rise.

Of particular concern is that clade I viruses are believed to be more aggressive.³ Furthermore, these viruses are accumulating genetic mutations, driven by human enzymes, which could potentially alter viral properties and enhance their adaptation to human hosts.⁴ “The longer these viruses circulate among us, the higher the chances these mutations help mpox adapt to humans,” the letter states.

While mpox was once primarily confined to Central Africa, the 2022 global outbreak and ongoing outbreaks in sub-Saharan Africa highlight its potential for wider dissemination.⁵ Although currently affecting adults predominantly, scientists warn that other groups, including children, are at risk of severe illness.⁶ Sustained transmission in children has not yet been reported, but the potential is present.

“Mpox control has to climb up the global health agenda,” Dr. Maluquer de Motes emphasized. “We have limited diagnostic tools and even fewer antiviral treatments. We urgently need better surveillance and local or regional capacity to produce what we need—otherwise, we are at risk of future epidemics.”⁷

Unlike smallpox, mpox has an animal reservoir, making eradication impossible.⁸ The researchers stress that immediate international action is crucial, including investment in point-of-care testing and new treatments, to prevent mpox from becoming a recurring global health threat.⁹

More information: Maluquer de Motes, C. et al. Mpox poses an ever-increasing epidemic and pandemic risk, Nature Medicine (2025).¹⁰ DOI: 10.1038/s41591-025-03589-8.

Journal information: Nature Medicine

Disclaimer: This news article is based on information provided by the University of Surrey and published in Nature Medicine. The information presented is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Readers should consult with qualified healthcare professionals for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to their health or treatment. The scientific understanding of mpox is evolving, and future research may yield new insights.