Mpox in Sweden 2025, Most cases in Stockholm
Since December 30, 2024, public health officials in Sweden (Folkhalsomyndigheten) reported 30 cases in the country, with the vast majority reported in Stockholm (27) through February 20.
All cases are adults and most are men.
Genetic analysis shows that so far it is the same virus strain (clade 2b) that spread in the international outbreak that started in 2022. The international outbreak has mainly involved men who have sex with men (MSM) and the infection has been spread primarily through sexual contact.
Mpox is transmitted through close physical contact with a person who is infected, and sexual contact poses a particularly high risk. It is important that anyone who has symptoms that could be mpox seeks medical attention for advice and possible testing, and follows the guidelines provided.
A combination of infection control measures including vaccination protects against the continued spread of mpox. It is important to avoid close physical contact and sexual contact with people who have mpox symptoms. Unvaccinated people who are at increased risk of contracting mpox are recommended to be vaccinated with two doses at least four weeks apart.
Vaccination against mpox reduces the risk of infection and the risk of serious illness, but vaccination does not provide complete protection. It is therefore important that even those who have been vaccinated against smallpox and have been exposed to possible infection also pay attention to mild symptoms consistent with mpox disease.
If you have been exposed to infection through close physical contact, such as sexual contact, with a person who has mpox, the healthcare system may in some cases offer vaccination. Such vaccination must be given as soon as possible to reduce the risk of contracting mpox, preferably within four days of exposure.