TL;DR: Mpox Cases Are Rising in Europe , Here’s What You Need to Know
Mpox, a viral disease causing rash, fever, and fatigue, is surging in Europe due to a highly transmissible strain (clade Ib). Major drivers include sexual networks, large gatherings, limited vaccinations, and community transmission among high-risk groups. Prevention strategies involve vaccination, hygiene, symptom awareness, and public health updates. Protect yourself with proactive measures, and stay informed during travels and events, especially in regions like Malta that prioritize healthy lifestyles. Explore MELA AI for health-conscious dining options.
What is Mpox and Why Are Cases Rising in Europe?
Mpox, also known as monkeypox, has emerged as a global health concern, challenging both medical experts and policymakers. The ongoing surge in Europe highlights the need for scientific understanding, precautionary measures, and public awareness.
What is Mpox?
Mpox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. It’s primarily transmitted from animals like rodents or primates, but human-to-human spread has become increasingly common. Symptoms include a painful skin rash, pus-filled lesions, fever, muscle pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. While mpox can be mild in some, it may lead to severe complications in immunocompromised individuals.
The virus spreads via close physical contact, including touching infected skin or contaminated items, such as bedding. Coughing and sneezing also contribute to transmission, making close-knit communities or gatherings a vulnerable area. Notably, it has predominantly affected gay, bisexual, and men who have sex with men, underscoring how social behaviors can drive outbreaks.
Why Are Mpox Cases Rising in Europe?
What’s Driving the Surge?
The recent increase is primarily linked to a new strain called clade Ib, which emerged during outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 2023. This strain has proven to be highly transmissible among humans, especially through sexual networks.
Several European countries, including Spain, Italy, Portugal, and the Netherlands, reported locally-acquired cases in 2025, unlike earlier outbreaks involving imported cases from endemic regions. This shift indicates community transmission, driven by factors such as large gatherings, travel, and limited vaccination uptake among high-risk demographics.
Current Statistics
Spain recently reported Europe’s first locally acquired cases of clade Ib mpox, triggering caution across public health services. Other cases have followed in neighboring countries, with epidemiologists noting clusters within social networks of men who have sex with men. In England, 16 cases were linked to recent travel, though local spread remains limited.
How Is Europe Responding?
Public health organizations like the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have been ramping up efforts, urging targeted vaccination programs and community education initiatives. In August 2024, the WHO declared mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, emphasizing the need for global collaboration to curb its spread.
Vaccination efforts: Since mpox symptoms are manageable and preventable, key strategies such as vaccination have been prioritized. High-risk groups are encouraged to receive two doses for protection. Although vaccines were originally designed for clade II, experts are optimistic about their effectiveness against clade Ib as well.
Tips for Staying Safe in Europe
Whether traveling for work, leisure, or a special event, knowing how to protect yourself from mpox is crucial. These practical tips can guide you:
- Get vaccinated: If you’re in a high-risk group, including those attending Winter Pride or similar events, check vaccine availability.
- Practice hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly and avoid direct contact with lesions or symptomatic individuals.
- Communicate with health services: Report symptoms early to help stop the spread.
- Stay informed: Check local health updates and avoid exposure during reported outbreaks.
For travelers exploring healthy dining and wellness, integrate your safety planning with your meal choices. Use tools like MELA AI not only to choose restaurants with healthy menus but also to find places that prioritize overall well-being. Explore dining recommendations by MELA CUISINES for a stress-free culinary journey.
What’s Next for Public Health?
The rise of mpox emphasizes how interconnected our health systems have become, with previously localized diseases crossing borders due to globalization. Lessons from the 2022, 2023 global outbreak highlight the importance of proactive policies, such as increased vaccination rates, scientific investment, and public engagement in preventing future escalations.
If you’re intrigued by healthy lifestyles and want actionable tips on health-conscious living in Malta, visit the MELA AI directory for an inspiring lineup of eateries prioritizing health!
Conclusion: It’s Time to Take Action
The increasing cases of mpox in Europe reflect global health’s shifting landscape, where diseases no longer confine themselves to particular regions or populations. Awareness, vaccination, and personal responsibility remain crucial in preventing mpox spread and ensuring individual and community safety. As Europe and the rest of the world navigate this challenge, the lessons learned can shape a healthier, safer future, one step and one meal at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mpox and Its Rise in Europe
What is mpox, and how is it transmitted?
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. It is primarily a zoonotic disease transmitted from animals like rodents and primates to humans. However, human-to-human transmission is now more common. The virus spreads through close physical contact, exposure to infected respiratory droplets, and touching contaminated items like clothing or bedding. Symptoms include skin rashes, pus-filled lesions, fever, muscle pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. While mpox is usually mild, it can cause severe complications in immunocompromised individuals.
Why are mpox cases rising in Europe?
The surge of mpox cases in Europe is attributed to the clade Ib strain, which is highly transmissible among humans. This strain was first noted during an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2023. Unlike earlier outbreaks that involved imported cases, recent cases in countries such as Spain, Italy, Portugal, and the Netherlands suggest local community transmission. Factors like close physical gatherings, travel, and low vaccination uptake in at-risk groups have contributed to this rise.
Which groups are most at risk for mpox?
High-risk groups include gay, bisexual, and men who have sex with men (GBMSM), especially those with multiple partners or engagement in group settings. Immunocompromised individuals are also at higher risk of severe complications from mpox. Public health officials are urging individuals within these demographics to take precautionary measures, including vaccination and avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals.
What should I do if I experience mpox symptoms?
If you suspect you have mpox, seek medical advice immediately. Symptoms include an itchy or painful rash, pus-filled lesions, fever, and fatigue. Avoid close physical contact with others and refrain from touching contaminated items like bedding or towels. Testing and early isolation are important to prevent the virus from spreading further. Vaccination may still be recommended if exposure is recent.
Are there vaccines available for mpox, and are they effective?
Yes, vaccines originally developed for smallpox have been found effective against monkeypox, particularly clade II of the virus. Although these vaccines were not specifically developed for clade Ib, experts are optimistic about their protective effect against this strain as well. Those in high-risk groups, such as GBMSM and individuals frequenting gatherings or events, are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated. Two doses are typically recommended, with a 28-day gap between them.
For more information and access to top healthcare resources in Malta and Gozo, visit the MELA AI directory.
How is Europe responding to the rising cases of mpox?
European countries are implementing measures such as ramping up vaccination programs and enhancing public awareness campaigns. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have called for targeted health interventions, such as community education and early symptom reporting. The WHO declared mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in August 2024 to emphasize the need for coordinated global action.
What precautions can I take if I’m traveling in Europe?
Travelers can reduce their risk of mpox by adhering to the following safeguards:
- Vaccination: If you’re in a high-risk group, ensure you’re vaccinated before traveling.
- Hygiene practices: Wash your hands thoroughly and avoid direct contact with infected individuals or their belongings.
- Awareness of outbreaks: Stay informed about local mpox case statistics and high-risk zones.
- Early reporting: If you experience symptoms after traveling, report them to health authorities promptly.
For a health-focused travel experience in Malta or Gozo, check out restaurants and wellness venues prioritized by MELA AI.
How does mpox impact dining choices for health-conscious diners in Malta?
Diners concerned about potential mpox outbreaks should prioritize restaurants that maintain strict hygiene standards and prioritize guest well-being. MELA AI offers a valuable resource for identifying health-conscious restaurants in Malta and Gozo that adhere to high levels of cleanliness and food preparation standards. The platform’s MELA sticker program highlights establishments that actively incorporate healthier options into their menus, ensuring a safe and satisfying dining experience.
To explore dining options with a focus on hygiene and nutrition, visit the MELA AI directory , Malta Restaurants.
Are large gatherings or events still safe during the mpox outbreak?
Large gatherings, especially in close-knit communities, can increase the risk of mpox transmission. Events where close physical contact or shared items like towels or seating occur may amplify the risk. If you’re planning to attend large gatherings such as Winter Pride events, staying vaccinated and adhering to hygiene protocols is critical. Public health authorities advise monitoring symptoms and avoiding attendance if unwell. Event organizers are also encouraged to provide guidance on minimizing risks.
What role does MELA AI play for restaurants addressing public health concerns?
MELA AI is a platform that connects diners in Malta and Gozo with restaurants prioritizing health, safety, and quality of life. Their MELA sticker initiative acknowledges establishments offering healthy dining options and adhering to rigorous hygiene protocols. In light of public health concerns like mpox, MELA AI provides market insights, branding strategies, and distinguished recognition for restaurants committed to their customers’ well-being. For restaurant owners, this is an opportunity to demonstrate leadership in health-conscious dining while attracting a broader customer base.
Explore health-focused dining options or enroll your restaurant with MELA AI through the MELA platform.
About the Author
Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur. Throughout her startup experience she has applied for multiple startup grants at the EU level, in the Netherlands and Malta, and her startups received quite a few of those. She’s been living, studying and working in many countries around the globe and her extensive multicultural experience has influenced her immensely.
Violetta Bonenkamp’s expertise in CAD sector, IP protection and blockchain
Violetta Bonenkamp is recognized as a multidisciplinary expert with significant achievements in the CAD sector, intellectual property (IP) protection, and blockchain technology.
CAD Sector:
- Violetta is the CEO and co-founder of CADChain, a deep tech startup focused on developing IP management software specifically for CAD (Computer-Aided Design) data. CADChain addresses the lack of industry standards for CAD data protection and sharing, using innovative technology to secure and manage design data.
- She has led the company since its inception in 2018, overseeing R&D, PR, and business development, and driving the creation of products for platforms such as Autodesk Inventor, Blender, and SolidWorks.
- Her leadership has been instrumental in scaling CADChain from a small team to a significant player in the deeptech space, with a diverse, international team.
IP Protection:
- Violetta has built deep expertise in intellectual property, combining academic training with practical startup experience. She has taken specialized courses in IP from institutions like WIPO and the EU IPO.
- She is known for sharing actionable strategies for startup IP protection, leveraging both legal and technological approaches, and has published guides and content on this topic for the entrepreneurial community.
- Her work at CADChain directly addresses the need for robust IP protection in the engineering and design industries, integrating cybersecurity and compliance measures to safeguard digital assets.
Blockchain:
- Violetta’s entry into the blockchain sector began with the founding of CADChain, which uses blockchain as a core technology for securing and managing CAD data.
- She holds several certifications in blockchain and has participated in major hackathons and policy forums, such as the OECD Global Blockchain Policy Forum.
- Her expertise extends to applying blockchain for IP management, ensuring data integrity, traceability, and secure sharing in the CAD industry.
Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).
She is the founder of Fe/male Switch, a startup game that encourages women to enter STEM fields, and also leads CADChain, and multiple other projects like the Directory of 1,000 Startup Cities with a proprietary MeanCEO Index that ranks cities for female entrepreneurs. Violetta created the “gamepreneurship” methodology, which forms the scientific basis of her startup game. She also builds a lot of SEO tools for startups. Her achievements include being named one of the top 100 women in Europe by EU Startups in 2022 and being nominated for Impact Person of the year at the Dutch Blockchain Week. She is an author with Sifted and a speaker at different Universities. Recently she published a book on Startup Idea Validation the right way: from zero to first customers and beyond, launched a Directory of 1,500+ websites for startups to list themselves in order to gain traction and build backlinks and is building MELA AI to help local restaurants in Malta get more visibility online.
For the past several years Violetta has been living between the Netherlands and Malta, while also regularly traveling to different destinations around the globe, usually due to her entrepreneurial activities. This has led her to start writing about different locations and amenities from the POV of an entrepreneur. Here’s her recent article about the best hotels in Italy to work from.
