# Is Mpox a new disease? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/is-mpox-a-new-disease Language: en Category: infectious Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.424Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.424Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/is-mpox-a-new-disease Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is not a new or emerging disease. The discovery of the causative virus dates back to 1958, when it was first identified during an outbreak of a smallpox-like illness in primate colonies used for scientific research in Denmark [\[2\]]() [\[3\]](). Since then, research has continued to understand the nature and epidemiological behavior of this virus. ## History of Human Transmission Although the virus was discovered in the 1950s, the first documented human case of mpox was not recorded until 1970, in a nine-month-old infant in the Democratic Republic of the Congo [\[2\]]() [\[3\]](). Following the global eradication of smallpox in 1980 and the subsequent discontinuation of smallpox vaccination, mpox began to appear with greater regularity and frequency in parts of Central, East, and West Africa [\[3\]](). For many years, the disease remained endemic in those regions, with the virus circulating naturally among small rodents, monkeys, and other mammals [\[1\]]() [\[2\]](). ## Viral Clades and Diversity Scientists classify the mpox virus into two main clades, each with distinct epidemiological characteristics: - **Clade I:** Found regularly in Central and East Africa, it is historically known to cause more severe disease and lead to higher mortality rates compared to the other clade [\[1\]]() [\[2\]](). - **Clade II:** Typically found in West Africa, it caused the global outbreak that peaked in 2022 [\[1\]](). This clade is generally considered less severe in its impact on public health compared to Clade I [\[1\]]() [\[2\]](). ## Why is it attracting attention today? Mpox continues to be a health threat that requires monitoring. In 2022, the disease shifted from being a rare condition outside Africa to a widespread global outbreak, prompting the World Health Organization to declare a Public Health Emergency of International Concern [\[3\]](). The reason for this continued threat is due to changes in transmission patterns, such as spread through social networks and close contact, in addition to the detection of new sub-lineages, such as Clade Ib, in various regions [\[3\]](). ## Diagnosis and Next Steps Because mpox symptoms (such as rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes) can overlap with other skin or viral conditions, accurate diagnosis relies on laboratory testing, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests of swabs taken from the rash [\[3\]](). If you are experiencing symptoms that concern you, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider, especially if you are in an area where the disease is spreading or have had contact with an infected person [\[2\]]() [\[3\]](). For more information on prevention and handling exposure, you can read our comprehensive guide on [Mpox: Symptoms, Transmission, and Prevention (Arabic)](). Always remember that home isolation upon the appearance of symptoms and avoiding close physical contact are the fundamental pillars for limiting the transmission of infection in the community [\[1\]]() [\[3\]](). ## Medical references - [Mpox]() - [About Monkeypox]() - [Mpox]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/is-mpox-a-new-disease#answer