Monkeypox self-diagnosis abilities, determinants of vaccination and self-isolation intention after diagnosis among MSM, the Netherlands, July 2022

Euro Surveill. 2022 Aug;27(33):2200603. doi: 10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2022.27.33.2200603.

Abstract

Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease and leads to a smallpox-like disease in humans. The current epidemic in European countries requires informed responses. We investigated the ability to self-diagnose a potential infection, and determinants of vaccination and self-isolation intention after diagnosis among 394 MSM in the Netherlands. We found that about half were able to self-diagnose monkeypox, that 70% had a high intention to get vaccinated and 44% to self-isolate after monkeypox diagnosis. Determinants went beyond mere risk behaviour criteria.

Keywords: Isolation; MSM; Monkeypox; Prevention; Self-diagnosis; Vaccination.

MeSH terms

  • Homosexuality, Male
  • Humans
  • Intention
  • Male
  • Mpox, Monkeypox*
  • Netherlands / epidemiology
  • Sexual and Gender Minorities*
  • Vaccination