CDC Releases Interim Monkeypox Prevention/Treatment Guidance for Persons with HIV

CDC has released Interim Guidance for Prevention and Treatment of Monkeypox in Persons with HIV Infection.

On August 4, 2022, the United States declared monkeypox a public health emergency. The current outbreak disproportionately affects gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM). MSM are also disproportionately affected by HIV. A recent study provides insights into the epidemiologic and clinical characteristics of monkeypox cases, and helps provide a roadmap for a prioritized, equitable response.

People with advanced HIV infection or who are not taking antiretroviral drugs might be at increased risk for severe disease if they get monkeypox. Monkeypox can be treated with the antiviral drug tecovirimat (TPOXX). No identified drug interactions would prevent someone with HIV from taking tecovirimat with antiretroviral drugs. Pre- and postexposure prophylaxis can be considered with the JYNNEOS vaccine. Although there are little data about monkeypox in patients with HIV, prompt diagnosis, prevention, and treatment might help prevent adverse outcomes and limit the spread of monkeypox.