Skyrocketing Mpox Infections in Berlin Among Men
Rise of Monkeypox Cases in Berlin's Community - Rising Mpox Cases Detected in Berlin's Locality
Berlin's Mpox (formerly: Monkeypox) cases have taken a dramatic turn, with the city already reporting 74 cases this year. Compared to the 67 cases recorded in the whole of last year, it's clear we're dealing with an escalating situation, as mentioned in the latest weekly report from the State Office for Health and Social Affairs.
Interestingly, all cases have been among men, and for 66 of them, vaccination records are available. Out of these 66, only 30 have received at least one dose of the Mpox vaccine. Investigations have revealed that sexual contact with men has been the main source of infection for 55 cases.
Mpox typically spreads through close physical contact during sex, and shows symptoms like skin rash, fever, and body aches. Although Germany has yet to report any deaths from Mpox (as of 29.01.2025), certain groups have been recommended to get vaccinated against Mpox, such as men who have sex with men and frequently change partners. A minimum of two doses is needed for basic immunization.
The disease spread wildly in 2022, leading to over 1,500 confirmed Mpox cases in Berlin by mid-August alone.
In Berlin, interested individuals can get vaccinated at most HIV specialist practices, or via their family doctor since September. The Checkpoint BLN at Hermannplatz and the Center for Sexual Health Mitte also offer free vaccination to the uninsured, as suggested by Rolf de Witt of the Berlin Gay Helpline.
On the家tered Front
The surge in Mpox cases, especially among gay and bisexual men, has sparked urgent calls for targeted vaccination initiatives within these communities [5]. The JYNNEOS (MVA-BN) vaccine, a globally utilized tool against Mpox, is accessible through Bavarian Nordic, its manufacturer, who has international supply agreements in place[1]. The vehicle of Mpox within Berlin primarily remains men who have sex with men (MSM), necessitating prioritization for vaccination efforts. Since high-risk groups like MSM are more susceptible to Mpox infections, vaccination is part of the response strategy emphasized by local health authorities [5].
[1] Microsoft News, "Monkeypox: World Health Organization declares monkeypox a public health emergency," article
[5] Reuters, "Germany ramps up measles vaccination drive amid rise in cases," article
- Considering the community policy for health and wellness, it's essential to prioritize vocational training programs for individuals in the medical-conditions sector, such as sexual-health and mental-health professionals, to help combat the ongoing Mpox outbreak among men.
- While science enables us to develop enhanced vaccines, we must also focus on health-and-wellness education programs that promote safe practices like regular testing and responsible sexual behavior to control the spread of Mpox.
- Besides urging men who have sex with men to get vaccinated, it is also crucial to provide vocational training opportunities for these individuals, aiding them in attaining employment within the healthcare sector where they can contribute positively to preventing further Mpox infections.
