The sudden appearance of mpox in 2022 was yet another example of how quickly an infectious disease can emerge, or, as in this case, spread from its usual home environment and become a major public health concern. Its rise and fall provide valuable lessons on the way in which infections can spread, and its control may suggest some ways in which targeted public health interventions can contain the spread of disease. In this module we will discuss how the mpox virus is related to other poxviruses. We will review the classical signs and symptoms of mpox, as well as the atypical symptoms that characterized the cases that emerged in the summer of 2022. This module will include a discussion of prevention strategies that appear to have been successful and consider the risk of stigmatizing particular groups when communicating targeted intervention campaigns. Lastly, we will cover the current treatments and vaccines that are available.

**Instructions to access the micromodule will be provided after you register.**

Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this micromodule, participants will be able to:

• describe the virus that causes mpox disease, and explain where it arose;
• identify the main signs and symptoms of mpox infection;
• explain how mpox is spread from person to person; and
• evaluate the latest methods used for detection, treatment, and prevention of mpox.

Target Audience
This presentation is appropriate for public health practitioners with varying professional experiences and diverse educational backgrounds.

Instructor
Jeremy Martinson, DrPH is an assistant professor in the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, where he has been on the faculty since 2002. He serves as the vice chair for research and as program director of the Master of Public Health degree with a concentration in infectious disease pathogenesis, eradication, and laboratory practice. Martinson received his doctoral degree from Oxford University. His laboratory work focuses on the molecular processes that generate genetic variation and how these variations impact health. He is both course director and primary instructor for several courses including Public Health Biology, Pathogen Biology, and Functional Genomics of Microbial Pathogens.

Level
This micromodule is appropriate for those with no or basic levels of experience with infectious disease.

Length: 20 minutes

Continuing Education Credits
Continuing education credits are not offered for this micromodule.

Technology Requirements
A computer with high-speed internet connection is required to view this micromodule.

For more information about this micromodule or for assistance with registration, contact marphtc@pitt.edu.

Creation Date
This training was created in June 2023.