Spatial and Epidemiological Aspects of Monkeypox (MPX) in Rio Grande do Sul

Abstract

This study analyzes the prevalence and spatial aspects of Monkeypox (MPX) in Rio Grande do Sul, considering the public health emergency declared by the World Health Organization in July 2022 and its relation to the high incidence of the disease in gay men and other men who have sex with men (MSM). Data were provided by the Rio Grande do Sul State Health Department via the Access to Information Law and revealed an incidence rate 53 times higher in MSM populations compared to heterosexual people and 48 times higher compared to bisexual people. In addition, MPX disproportionately afetos Black and Brown people, with an incidence rate three times higher than the White population. Spatial analysis of the disease demonstrated its concentration in metropolitan areas. It is suggested that disseminating evidence-based information is essential to avoid stigmatization of these groups and that ring vaccination is crucial to prevent the endemic spread of the disease. It is concluded that Black and Brown gay men and MSM are at the highest risk for MPX, and preventive actions should be implemented to protect these vulnerable groups, avoid disease spread and ensure health equity.

Keywords:
Monkeypox; MPX; Smallpox; Disinformation