Comparison of immune response against Monkeypox Virus in infected
patients and historic or newly vaccinated subjects
Abstract
Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is a zoonotic disease endemic in the rain forest
countries of Central and West Africa. Understanding the immune response
in zoonosis is fundamental to prevent and contrast viral spreading. MPXV
is a close relative of the Variola (smallpox) virus and vaccination with
vaccinia virus give an 85% protection against MPXV. With the emergence
of the recent MPXV outbreak, Jynneos vaccine has been proposed to
individuals at high-risk of exposure. Comparative data on MPXV immune
response in vaccinated or infected subjects is still scarce. Here we
described the differences between a group of infected patients in
comparison to smallpox or Jynneos vaccinated subjects. The patients’
response is stronger and faster, while the Jynneos vaccinated controls
need more time to develop a good immunity. Interestingly, the historic
smallpox-vaccinated controls retain a degree of protection, even after
years from vaccination, which is most visible in the T-cellular memory
that is comparable to the newly vaccinated subjects.