Expanding the Global Response to Mpox: Addressing Needs of At-Risk Communities

Overview

The mpox outbreak highlights the vulnerabilities of marginalized populations such as sex workers and massage therapists, particularly in regions where criminalization and stigma limit access to healthcare. Lessons from African countries emphasize the importance of inclusive strategies including public health education, targeted vaccination, and contact tracing to protect these high-risk groups globally.

Background

Mpox, initially concentrated in parts of Africa, has spread to other regions including the Philippines, where the first case was reported in July 2022. Marginalized populations engaged in high-contact occupations, such as sex workers and massage therapists, face increased risk due to criminalization and stigma. These factors push workers into informal settings with limited access to prevention and treatment services. Addressing these challenges requires adapting public health interventions to local contexts while learning from global experiences.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Sex workers and massage therapists in the Philippines face increased mpox risk due to clandestine work and criminalization.
• Criminalization limits access to healthcare services including vaccination, testing, and contact tracing.
• Targeted public health education campaigns are essential to raise awareness and dispel myths about mpox transmission.
• Vaccination efforts should prioritize high-risk groups engaged in close physical contact occupations.
• Effective contact tracing requires a stigma-free environment to encourage reporting and cooperation.
• Decriminalization of sex work is critical to improving access to healthcare and reducing mpox transmission risks.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers and public health authorities should prioritize inclusive strategies that address the unique vulnerabilities of marginalized populations such as sex workers. Implementing targeted vaccination and education campaigns, alongside efforts to reduce stigma and criminalization, can improve access to prevention and care. Building trust with these communities is essential for effective contact tracing and outbreak control.

Conclusion

A global, inclusive public health response that incorporates lessons from diverse settings is vital to protecting marginalized groups from mpox. Decriminalization and tailored interventions can reduce transmission and improve health outcomes among at-risk populations worldwide.

References

1. Authors of original article, 2024 -- Expanding the Global Response to Mpox
2. Cordero, 2024 -- Reflection on Mpox Risks among Massage Therapists in the Philippines
3. Public Health Reports, 2024 -- Barriers to Healthcare Access for Criminalized Populations
4. African Mpox Vaccination Campaigns, 2023 -- Targeted Vaccination Strategies
5. COVID-19 Contact Tracing Lessons, 2020-2022 -- Effective Outbreak Control Measures