Berlin Sees 125 Mpox Cases This Year, Health Office Recommends Vaccination
Berlin, July 19 – The German capital has registered 125 Mpox cases so far this year, making it a national hotspot for the disease. While case numbers have declined in recent weeks, aligning with last year’s figures, they remain significantly higher than in 2024 (29 cases) and 2023 (10 cases) for the same period. The State Office for Health and Social Affairs (Lageso) is urging residents, especially those in high-risk groups, to ensure they are vaccinated against Mpox.
Mpox Primarily Affects Men, Vaccination Status Varies
According to Lageso’s latest weekly report on infectious diseases (as of July 15), the majority of those infected are men, with ages ranging from 19 to 66 years. Of the 110 individuals whose vaccination status was known, approximately half (53 percent) had received at least one dose of the Mpox or smallpox vaccine.
Transmission and Recommended Vaccination Groups
Mpox is a rare disease primarily transmitted through close physical contact, especially during sexual activity. The risk of infection is highest when coming into contact with the characteristic skin lesions (blisters or scabs) of infected individuals. Droplet infection through saliva is also possible.
In Germany, vaccination against Mpox is recommended for specific groups, including men who have sex with men and frequently change partners, as well as sex workers. A primary immunization requires two vaccine doses.
High Case Numbers Point to Spread in Sexual Networks
The consistently high number of cases in Berlin suggests that Mpox continues to spread within sexual networks of gay and bisexual men, and generally among men who have sex with men.
Lageso Launches Awareness Campaign During Pride Season
In light of the ongoing Pride season, Lageso is actively disseminating information about Mpox vaccination through dating apps, social media, postcards, and posters in both English and German. An Instagram post from the office advises: “If your summer consists of CSD season, club nights, darkrooms, or dating apps and spontaneous encounters, then an Mpox vaccination is just as essential as your outfit for the night.”
Prevention and Further Information
The Lageso emphasizes the importance of vaccination as a key preventive measure, particularly for individuals at higher risk of exposure. Regular monitoring of case numbers and targeted information campaigns aim to curb the spread of the disease and protect public health in Berlin.
Further details on Mpox, including symptoms, prevention, and vaccination information, can be found on the Lageso website and through public health advisories.
Source: https://www.borkenerzeitung.de/nachrichten/125-Mpox-Faelle-in-Berlin-Amt-raet-zur-Impfung-774928.html
