Mpox Virus

About the Response

In 2003, the United States experienced an outbreak of mpox, the first time human mpox was reported outside of Africa. CDC deployed teams of medical officers, epidemiologists, and other experts to several states to assist with the investigation.

Together with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration, and other agencies, CDC participated in a variety of activities that prevented further spread of mpox.

This included extensive laboratory testing; deployment of smallpox vaccine and treatments; development of guidance for patients, healthcare providers, veterinarians, and other animal handlers; tracking potentially infected animals; and investigation into possible human cases.