A SYSTEMATIC review and meta-analysis examining risk factors associated with Mpox infection has provided important insights into transmission patterns and protective factors. The study analyzed data from 31 peer-reviewed articles, offering evidence-based guidance for clinicians and public health professionals managing the disease.
The meta-analysis found several significant risk factors for Mpox infection. The strongest associations were observed for interaction with infected animals (OR=5.61, 95% CI 2.83–11.13) and HIV infection (OR=4.46, 95% CI 3.27–6.08). Other notable factors included contact with an infected person (OR=2.39, 95% CI 1.87–3.05), unprotected sexual activity (OR=1.53, 95% CI 1.13–2.07), and identification as men who have sex with men (OR=2.18, 95% CI 1.88–2.51). Individuals with multiple sexual partners (OR=1.61, 95% CI 1.24–2.09) or other sexually transmitted infections (OR=1.76, 95% CI 1.42–2.19) were also at heightened risk.
Importantly, the analysis confirmed the protective effect of smallpox vaccination, which was associated with a 76% reduction in Mpox infection risk (OR=0.24, 95% CI 0.11–0.55). This finding supports ongoing discussions around the potential role of smallpox vaccination in preventing Mpox transmission.
The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and employed the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. Fixed- and random-effects models were used to calculate odds ratios and assess heterogeneity, with significant variability observed across some studies (I² statistic).
These findings have important implications for public health planning. By identifying high-risk groups and factors contributing to Mpox transmission, the study provides a foundation for targeted interventions, particularly among populations with a higher prevalence of risk behaviors or comorbid conditions.
Reference: Ugwu CLJ et al. Risk factors associated with human Mpox infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Glob Health. 2025;10(2):e016937.
Anaya Malik | AMJ
