Environmental Monitoring and Wastewater Analysis as Tools for Early Detection and Management of Mpox Outbreaks: A Scoping Review

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Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, poses a significant global health threat, with over 100,000 cases reported in 122 countries as of early 2024.
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Challenges in mpox outbreak management include stigma, surveillance fatigue, and diagnostic limitations, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
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Wastewater and environmental surveillance (WES) can detect MPXV DNA, providing early warning of mpox prevalence and aiding public health responses.
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Studies indicate that MPXV concentrations in wastewater can rise before clinical cases are reported, enhancing outbreak monitoring and management.
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This scoping review aims to summarize evidence on WES as an early warning system for mpox outbreaks, highlighting its potential in diverse settings.

Bmc Medicine

by Sizwe Nkambule, Hanyani Lebese, Yonela Mkunyana, Edison Mavundza, Mark E. Engel, Renée Street
December 29, 2025

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