Clinical features and outcome of human Mpox (Monkeypox) in Saudi Arabia: An observational study of travel-related cases.

BACKGROUND: The 2022 Monkeypox virus (Mpox) outbreak had involved multiple countries around the globe. Here, we report clinical features and outcome of human Mpox of the first cases in Saudi Arabia.

METHODS: We obtained records of confirmed Mpox cases in Saudi Arabia from the public electronic health information system, Health Electronic Surveillance Network (HESN) and the healthcare providers completed a de-identified structured clinical data collection form.

RESULTS: The reported seven cases were travel-related and all were males between 24 and 41 years of age (mean age + SD) was 30.14 (+ 6.69) years. Of the cases, three (43 %) had heterosexual contact and the others had other intimate encounters while traveling abroad. They presented with skin lesions (100 %), fever (86 %), and lymphadenopathy (71 %). The illness was mild to moderate, did not require antiviral medications, and lasted 7-15 days. The mean duration of skin rash (+ SD) was 10 (+ 2.68) days. Routine laboratory tests (CBC, BUN, serum electrolytes, and liver enzymes) were within normal limits, and initial screening for HIV was negative. Expanded contact tracing did not reveal secondary cases of Mpox in the community or the healthcare setting.

CONCLUSION: The current study showed heterosexual transmission of Mpox and the clinical course was mild and non-complicated. Therefore, clinicians and public health professionals should consider Mpox among individuals presenting with skin rash especially in the context of the investigation of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.