Steppin' Up with Mpox Cases: A Rise in Mpox Infections Among Men in Berlin
Rise of Mpox Cases in Berlin - Rise of Mpox Cases in Berlin's Population
It's a concerning trend in Berlin as 74 cases of Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, have popped up this year, outnumbering the entire yearly count of 67 in 2024 - as per the latest weekly report from the State Office for Health and Social Affairs.
You guessed it, all these cases have been reported among men. Out of these, information on the vaccination status of 66 men is available. Among them, 30 are at least partially vaccinated. Intriguingly, 55 men contracted the virus via sexual contact with other men.
So, what's the deal with this Mpox business?
Mpox is primarily transmitted through close physical contact, including during sexual encounters. Symptoms typically include a skin rash, fever, and muscle aches. Thankfully, there haven't been any fatalities in Germany (as of 29.01.2025). Certain groups, like men who have sex with men, are encouraged to get vaccinated against Mpox, with two doses required for basic immunization.
The virus swept through communities in 2022, with over 1,500 confirmed cases in Berlin alone by mid-August.
Want to beef up your immune system against Mpox? You're in luck! In Berlin, the vaccine is available at most HIV specialist practices, and since September, interested parties can also get vaccinated by their trusted family doctor. FUN fact: The Checkpoint BLN at Hermannplatz and the Center for Sexual Health Mitte provide free vaccinations to the uninsured, as declared by Rolf de Witt of the Berlin Gay Helpline.
Mpox - Key Facts:
- Vaccination Eligibility: Vaccination against Mpox is recommended for adults at higher risk, such as the GBMSM community.
- Vaccine Effectiveness: The JYNNEOS vaccine offers substantial protection against Mpox, particularly in individuals without HIV.
- Community Engagement: Close collaboration with affected communities, like the GBMSM community, aids in effective vaccination strategies and controlling the spread of Mpox.
For the latest and most accurate guidance, consult your healthcare provider or local health authorities.
[1] "Mpox vaccination in Germany" (Robert Koch Institute)[2] "JYNNEOS vaccine for mpox prevention in adults" (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)[3] "Mpox vaccination in the context of ongoing outbreaks" (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)[4] "Mpox infection control strategies" (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)[5] "Recommended vaccines for GBMSM" (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine)
- Community engagement and collaboration are essential in effective vaccination strategies against Mpox, particularly when addressing groups at higher risk like the GBMSM community.
- Adults with medical-conditions related to sexual-health, such as GBMSM, are encouraged to consider vaccination against Mpox due to the substantial protection offered by the JYNNEOS vaccine.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, vaccination can play a crucial role in preventing the spread of diseases like Mpox, which is primarily transmitted through close physical contact including during sexual encounters, and promoting overall science-based sexual-health and mental-health.