NewsDesk @bactiman63

In Germany, the first cases of monkeypox were identified in May 2022 (as of May 24th: 5 cases, see e.g. press release from the Ministry for Social Affairs, Health and Integration in Baden-Württemberg dated May 23rd, 2022 , press release from the Senate Department for Health in Berlin dated May 21st. 2022 , press release from the Bavarian State Ministry of Health and Care of May 20, 2022), according to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI).

Germany/CIA

These cases are related to other monkeypox cases reported in May 2022 in various countries outside of Africa.

What is special about these cases is that those affected had not traveled to African countries where the virus is endemic (West and Central Africa), as they had in the past, and that many transmissions apparently took place in the context of sexual activities (currently especially in men who have had sexual contact with other men).

As far as is known, most of those affected do not become seriously ill. Further cases are also to be expected in Germany.

According to current knowledge, close contact is required for transmission of the pathogen, so it can currently be assumed that the outbreak can be contained, etc. ) or lesions can be included in the extended differential diagnostic considerations.

According to current knowledge, the RKI assesses the risk to the health of the general population in Germany as low. The RKI continues to monitor the situation very closely and adapts its assessment to the current state of knowledge.

Portugal reports 14 additional confirmed monkeypox cases

France reports first confirmed case of monkeypox

Spain: 7 confirmed monkeypox cases reported in the Community of Madrid

European health officials on Monkeypox transmission: ‘The likelihood of further spread of the virus through close contact, for example during sexual activities, is considered to be high’