Evidence of adaptation is pending
The researchers take this as the first indication that the virus is beginning to adapt to humans and, for example, is improving its ability to jump from person to person. “These data show early signs of ongoing virus evolution and possible adaptation to humans,” conclude Isidro and colleagues. However, this has not yet been proven.
Meanwhile, experts still hope to be able to prevent the monkeypox virus from finally establishing itself in Europe. With around 2000 cases in Germany, for example, the infection process is still easy to control. Above all, vaccination of risk groups and known contact persons would contribute to this. As mentioned, the vaccine originally developed against smallpox also protects very well against monkeypox.
Men who have frequently changing male sex partners could protect themselves by being vaccinated – and temporarily holding back sexually until then. Because it is not a primary sexually transmitted disease, condoms do not provide adequate protection against monkeypox infection.