- Two instances of Monkeypox reported in Brandenburg
Since the start of this year, two instances of Mpox illnesses have been reported to Brandenburg's Labor Ministry for Occupational Safety, Consumer Protection, and Health. This information was shared by Potsdam's Health Department. Since May 2022, Germany and other non-African nations have recorded Mpox cases, as mentioned by the Federal Health Ministry. These cases involve Mpox viruses belonging to the IIb classification, according to the same source.
Approximately 3,800 Mpox cases have been reported to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), with around 3,700 occurring between the summer and autumn of 2022. The number of cases initially increased significantly from May 2022, but a significant decrease was observed from August 2022. Only a few isolated cases have been reported since mid-October 2022.
In Brandenburg, 417 Mpox vaccine doses are in storage, as stated by the local ministry. These vaccines are being kept in reserve to address any potential local outbreaks. "No further central procurement of Mpox vaccines is currently under consideration," they added.
No elevated risk at present
The Robert Koch Institute currently does not consider there to be a heightened risk of clade I viruses in Germany. Monkeypox clade IIb is primarily spread through close bodily contact, especially during intimate activities. Most of the transmissions have taken place within this context, particularly among men who engage in sex with multiple partners, as per the RKI.
Monkeypox primarily causes skin lesions, but it also leads to fever and muscle pain. No fatalities related to the disease have been recorded in Germany so far. Certain population groups in Germany are recommended to get vaccinated against Monkeypox, such as men who have sex with men and frequently change partners.
The Federal Ministry of Health in Germany has also reported Mpox cases outside Africa since May 2022, as mentioned earlier. In response to the rising number of Mpox cases, the Federal Ministry of Health has taken measures to ensure a sufficient quantity of vaccines for potential outbreaks.
