Mpox infections from May to November 2022 among cisgender women and pregnant individuals accounted for less than 3% of the total reported cases in the United States, according to a report published by Oakley et al in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. In the time frame studied, there were 769 cases of mpox among cisgender women, including 23 (3%) who were pregnant. Nearly half—44%—of cases among cisgender women occurred in Black patients, followed by White patients (25%) and Hispanic patients (23%). Most cisgender women (90%) who were infected reported recent sexual activity with a cisgender man. Among the 23 cases occurring in pregnant or recently pregnant individuals, there were data on exposure for 12—9 were exposed via sexual contact and 3 via household contact. Four pregnant individuals were hospitalized for symptoms related to their mpox infection (pain control and treatment of superimposed cellulitis). The study authors emphasized, “Public health efforts should include more emphasis on cisgender women who might be at increased risk for exposure. In addition, although most reported cases of mpox in pregnant persons have been managed in the outpatient setting, some persons might require hospitalization, and there is a risk for perinatal transmission. To mitigate this risk, pregnant, recently pregnant, and breastfeeding persons should be offered prophylaxis or treatment if indicated.”
May 24, 2023