Mpox Outbreak: Over Half Experience Lingering Symptoms in 2022
- A recent analysis delved into the long-term effects of mpox, assessing post-mpox sequelae among adults in New York city and Houston.
- The study, published January 25, 2026, revealed that 58% of those who had mpox experienced at least one persistent sequela 11 to 18 months after acute illness.
- It's important to note that the size of acute mpox lesions was a key factor.
Key takeaways:
- most patients diagnosed wiht mpox in 2022 had at least one persistent sequela months after acute illness.
- 56% of patients had appearance-related sequelae.
A recent analysis delved into the long-term effects of mpox, assessing post-mpox sequelae among adults in New York city and Houston. Researchers evaluated 154 individuals diagnosed with mpox between May 2022 and January 2023, and 201 at-risk individuals who never contracted the virus. All participants completed psychosocial and behavioral self-assessments, with those diagnosed with mpox also undergoing physical examinations.
The study, published January 25, 2026, revealed that 58% of those who had mpox experienced at least one persistent sequela 11 to 18 months after acute illness. Appearance-related sequelae were common, affecting 56% of those previously infected, tho most experienced fewer than 10 scars or discoloration sites, involving two or fewer body areas.
It’s important to note that the size of acute mpox lesions was a key factor. Researchers found that confluent lesions measuring 2 cm or larger were the only component of the Mpox Severity Scoring System correlated with long-term sequelae. This suggests clinicians should consider more aggressive monitoring and treatment, or early dermatology consultation, for larger lesions to potentially mitigate scarring.
Functional sequelae were reported by 13% of patients, with ongoing anorectal dysfunction affecting 50% of this group and urinary dysfunction impacting 35%. Only 2% reported mpox affecting their daily activities. A small number of participants required interventional procedures or assistive devices, highlighting the need for intensive medical management in some cases.
despite these findings, the study indicated a generally positive self-assessment of health among participants. Almost 90% of those who had mpox rated their health as good, very good, or excellent at the time of evaluation, and few required ongoing health services. However, the researchers acknowledged the study’s limitations, noting that enrollment was limited to two U.S. regions, potentially affecting the generalizability of the results. this research provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the spectrum of post-mpox sequelae and informs clinical considerations for managing the condition.