2023 study shows that even with vaccinations those indulging in continued risky behaviors will still contract Mpox
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Nov 20, 2024 1 month, 9 hours, 40 minutes ago
Medical News: A new study has highlighted that despite vaccinations, individuals engaging in high-risk behaviors remain vulnerable to contracting Mpox (Monkeypox), particularly during outbreaks. Researchers from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), Rush University Medical Center, and several other institutions conducted the investigation. The study was focused on an Mpox outbreak in Chicago, Illinois, between March and June 2023. During this period, a surprising 57% of cases occurred among fully vaccinated individuals.
2023 study shows that even with vaccinations those indulging in continued risky behaviors will still contract Mpox
This
Medical News report examines the details and findings of the study, shedding light on the risks associated with Mpox and how behaviors can undermine vaccination efforts. The outbreak raised questions about Mpox vaccine effectiveness and behavioral factors influencing disease transmission.
Background and Scope of the Outbreak
Mpox re-emerged globally in 2022, primarily affecting men who have sex with men (MSM). Vaccination efforts were robust, with the JYNNEOS vaccine at the forefront. In Chicago, by early 2023, vaccination coverage was substantial, with an estimated 63% of at-risk individuals having some level of immunity through vaccination or prior infection. However, despite these efforts, an unexpected cluster of cases appeared in spring 2023.
The Chicago outbreak included 49 cases, with 46 confirmed and three probable diagnoses. Most cases were among cisgender males (88%), predominantly in the MSM community. Nearly 57% of these individuals were fully vaccinated, raising concerns about breakthrough infections.
Study Methods: How the Outbreak Was Investigated
Researchers used a multi-pronged approach to study the outbreak. They interviewed patients, reviewed medical records, and conducted laboratory testing. Behavioral patterns, vaccination histories, and antibody responses were all analyzed. Genetic sequencing of the Mpox virus was also performed to detect potential mutations or vaccine-resistant strains.
Vaccinated individuals had received the recommended two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine. Despite adequate vaccine storage and no evidence of compromised doses, the outbreak persisted, pointing to other contributing factors, primarily behavioral risks.
Key Findings: Behavior Matters More Than You Think
The study revealed striking differences in behaviors between vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. Vaccinated individuals reported having a median of three sexual partners in the three weeks before symptom onset, compared to one partner among unvaccinated individuals. Risky activities, including group sex and anonymous encounters, were common among those affected.
Laboratory testing showed that vaccinated patients developed the expected immune responses. However, this did not prevent them from
contracting the virus when exposed through high-risk behaviors. Genetic analysis of the virus found no significant mutations that could explain the breakthrough infections, ruling out vaccine-resistant strains.
What About the Vaccine?
The JYNNEOS vaccine remains highly effective in reducing severe outcomes. None of the vaccinated individuals required hospitalization, and their symptoms were generally milder. This supports the vaccine's role in mitigating disease severity, even if it cannot entirely prevent infections.
It is crucial to note that vaccines do not provide absolute immunity. In the case of Mpox, the vaccine reduces the risk but does not eliminate it, especially when individuals continue engaging in behaviors that facilitate transmission.
Broader Implications
The Chicago outbreak is not an isolated incident. Similar patterns have been observed in other locations, including France and California. These findings emphasize the need for behavioral interventions alongside vaccination campaigns. Educating at-risk populations about the importance of reducing exposure risks, even after vaccination, is critical.
Public health strategies must address the complexity of human behaviors. Vaccines alone cannot control outbreaks if individuals do not modify their activities. The study suggests that combining vaccination with harm-reduction strategies, such as limiting the number of sexual partners and avoiding high-risk environments, can better prevent disease transmission.
Conclusion: Lessons Learned
The Chicago Mpox outbreak serves as a reminder that vaccines are a powerful tool, but not a silver bullet. Individuals must take personal responsibility for reducing their risks. For communities, particularly MSM, adopting safer practices alongside vaccination can make a significant difference.
This study underscores that prevention is a shared responsibility. Public health officials must continue to promote comprehensive strategies, including vaccination, education, and behavioral modifications. By doing so, the risk of Mpox and similar outbreaks can be minimized.
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: Clinical Infectious Diseases.
https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/79/1/122/7639496
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https://www.thailandmedical.news/articles/monkeypox
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