Some cases in this outbreak have been identified among communities of men who have sex with men. Why is this?

Monkeypox is spread from person to person through close contact. The risk of monkeypox is not limited to men who have sex with men. Anyone who has close contact with someone who is infectious is at risk. One possible explanation for cases of monkeypox during this outbreak being reported more commonly in communities of men who have sex with men is that these communities may be more aware of health risks and seek care more often. Monkeypox rashes can resemble some sexually transmitted diseases, including herpes and syphilis, which may explain why these cases are being picked up at clinics for sexually transmitted infections. It is likely that as we learn more, we may identify cases in the broader community.