This year, Berlin has already recorded 160 mpox infections, a number that surpasses the total for the previous two years combined. The latest weekly report from the Berlin State Office for Health and Social Affairs (Lageso) shows that in 2024 there were 68 cases, while 2023 accounted for 87 infections.
Since July, there has been a decline in the weekly reported case counts, with zero to four infections per week. Most recently, Lageso logged nine mpox cases—significantly higher than in the weeks before. All affected individuals are men aged 20 to 60. Of the men who have been identified so far, five were vaccinated against mpox.
Mpox is a viral disease. It spreads through close contact, including intimate contact such as sex. The virus typically causes a skin rash, but can also bring on fever and muscle aches.
Vaccination against mpox is recommended for certain groups in Germany. This includes men who have sex with men and who frequently change partners. For a basic immunization, two doses are required.
