Mpox: exploring the nursing role in diagnosis, management and controlling its spread
To increase your knowledge of mpox and the role of the nurse in managing patients with a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of the disease
To understand the importance of effective infection control in preventing the spread of mpox
To contribute towards revalidation as part of your 35 hours of CPD (UK readers)
To contribute towards your professional development and local registration renewal requirements (non-UK readers)
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that has become a significant global health concern following outbreaks beyond its endemic regions in central and west Africa. In 2022, the World Health Organization declared a ‘public health emergency of international concern’ (PHEIC) due to a rise in mpox cases, predominantly affecting gay and bisexual men. Although the initial surge of cases had diminished by early 2023, a new PHEIC was declared in 2024 due to a more severe strain of the virus circulating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Healthcare workers, especially nurses, have a critical role in diagnosing, managing and controlling the spread of mpox. This article sets out the factors nurses should consider when caring for patients who present with a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of mpox.
