Detection of Mpox Virus in Seminal Fluids: Implications for Sexual Transmission.

Abstract

The 2022 outbreak of the human mpox virus, formerly known as monkeypox, raised global health concerns with widespread transmission across multiple countries. Sexual transmission emerged as a significant mode of spread, particularly among high-risk groups like MSM and PLWH. This manuscript focuses on the implications of seminal fluids in the transmission of mpox. The virus has been detected in various bodily fluids, including semen, indicating the potential for sexual transmission. Studies have reported high positivity rates of mpox DNA in seminal fluids. Despite some concern about possible contamination due to genital lesions, the presence of replication-competent virus in seminal fluids has been confirmed and mpox virus was also detected in this specimen among people who engaged only in receptive sexual intercourse. Antiviral treatment with tecovirimat showed efficacy in reducing viral presence in semen with detection of the antiviral in this specimen. Virus clearance from semen is relatively rapid and parallels healing from infection, with no reported cases of seminal fluid relapses. The WHO recommendation to avoid condomless intercourse for 12 weeks after clinical healing still appears prudent. Continued research and surveillance are essential to understand viral dynamics and develop effective prevention measures to combat the spread of mpox through sexual transmission and protect key-populations.