Mpox in Hong Kong: what to know about the virus and sauna-linked outbreak

Hong Kong has recorded a surge in Mpox cases linked to a gay-friendly sauna and fitness club in Mong Kok, prompting health authorities to launch a targeted vaccination outreach programme for high-risk groups.The Centre for Health Protection has contacted more than 300 people who visited the venue since May for medical surveillance and urged anyone who visited during that period to call its dedicated hotline for advice.The centre is conducting an epidemiological investigation into the outbreak.The South China Morning Post explains what you need to know about Mpox and the latest outbreak in Hong Kong.1. What is Mpox?Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a zoonosis caused by the monkeypox virus. It was first detected in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, following its discovery in 1958 in monkeys.