Mpox Resurgence: From African Wildlife to Global Health Concerns
A recent surge in Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) cases, particularly linked to travel from Madagascar, is prompting renewed public health responses. On January 22, 2026, the first confirmed case in Réunion was identified in a resident returning from Madagascar, where the virus is actively circulating. A second case was confirmed on February 10, 2026, with no epidemiological link to the first, indicating multiple importations.
Tracing the Origins: A Deep Dive into the Animal Reservoir
While initially discovered in monkeys in laboratory settings in 1958, researchers have long suspected rodents and other small mammals in Africa as the natural reservoirs for the Mpox virus. A pivotal discovery in Côte d’Ivoire’s Taï National Park in January 2023 provided crucial insights. Scientists observed a baby mangabey exhibiting characteristic skin lesions, and the animal died two days later. Further cases emerged among other monkeys within the park.
This outbreak presented a unique opportunity to investigate the virus’s origins. Researchers, led by Fabian Leendertz of the Helmholtz Institute for One Health, began tracing the virus’s path. Analysis of fecal samples revealed traces of the virus in numerous monkeys, with some samples dating back to early December 2022, suggesting initial circulation without noticeable illness.
The Role of the African Squirrel
The investigation expanded to include hundreds of rodents and shrews found within the park. A single sample tested positive: an African squirrel found dead on November 3, 2022 – nearly three months before the outbreak among the monkeys.
Researchers hypothesize that a mangabey contracted the virus by consuming an infected squirrel. To confirm this, they analyzed the fecal samples of the monkeys for animal DNA during the 16 weeks preceding the outbreak.
The analysis revealed DNA from the African squirrel in two samples. The earliest sample, taken on December 6, 2022, also contained the oldest evidence of Mpox DNA. This sample came from the mother of the first identified baby mangabey.
Yap Boum, a biologist at the African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, suggests that exposure to these squirrels may also be responsible for some human Mpox epidemics. Virologist Martine Peeters from the National Institute for Research for Sustainable Development (INRD) believes the squirrel is the virus’s reservoir and emphasizes the need to understand human-animal interactions, such as whether squirrels are being consumed, and if contact rates have increased.
Transmission and Current Response
Mpox can transmit between people through close physical contact, including sexual contact, and through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person’s lesions.
In response to the growing concern, Réunion’s health agency (ARS La Réunion) launched a vaccination campaign on February 9, 2026, prioritizing those most at risk: immunocompromised individuals, men who have sex with men (MSM), and sex workers. Similar vaccination efforts are underway in Madagascar, where 533 cases have been reported as of a few days ago, with the Mahajanga coastal region as the epicenter.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the symptoms of Mpox? Mpox typically presents with a skin rash that can affect the face, ano-genital region, palms, and soles of the feet. It may be accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
- How is Mpox transmitted? The virus spreads through direct contact with skin lesions or mucous membranes, or indirect contact with contaminated objects (like bedding or clothing).
- Is Mpox serious? While most cases are mild, Mpox can be serious, especially for individuals with weakened immune systems.
- Is there a vaccine for Mpox? Yes, a vaccine is available and is being prioritized for at-risk populations in Réunion.
Pro Tip: If you develop a rash and suspect Mpox, isolate yourself and seek medical attention immediately.
Source: science.org – nature.com
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