Unveiling Racial and Ethnic Disparities in MPOX Virus Vaccine Distribution and Demographic Patterns in the United States

1. Introduction

MPOX (or monkeypox) is an illness caused by the monkeypox virus [1]. It is a viral infection which can spread between people and occasionally from the environment to people via things and surfaces that have been touched by a person with MPOX [2,3]. In settings where the monkeypox virus is present among some wild animals, it can also be transmitted from infected animals to people who have contact with them. The emergence of novel infectious diseases, such as MPOX viruses, has underscored the critical importance of equitable vaccine distribution and the impact of demographic factors on public health outcomes [4]. MPOX viruses, a family of rapidly evolving pathogens, have posed significant challenges to global health systems. As the United States, like other nations, grapples with containing the spread of MPOX viruses, it has become apparent that there are significant disparities in vaccine distribution and demographic trends affecting the effectiveness of vaccination efforts [5,6].

The COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged in the early 2020s, exposed the stark disparities in health outcomes, particularly among racial and ethnic minority populations. These disparities were attributed to a complex web of factors, including socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, structural racism, and healthcare disparities. It served as a poignant reminder of the need to address these issues comprehensively and in a timely manner [7,8,9,10]. As a result, the distribution of vaccines for emerging infectious diseases, such as MPOX viruses, has taken center stage in discussions surrounding public health, with the aim of rectifying past inequalities [11,12,13,14].

In the United States, the MPOX virus outbreak has had a significant impact on public health [15]. As of the latest available data, the country has reported a total of 30,861 confirmed cases of MPOX virus infection. Tragically, the virus has also led to the loss of 54 lives in the United States. These numbers provide a snapshot of the domestic situation and the challenges the country is facing in containing the spread of this emerging infectious disease. On a global scale, the MPOX virus has affected numerous nations, with a total of 90,656 confirmed cases reported worldwide [16,17]. While the United States is one of the countries grappling with this public health crisis, the global reach of the virus underscores the urgency of finding effective solutions to control its spread and minimize its impact. The correlation between MPOX and healthcare is multifaceted, playing a pivotal role in addressing the challenges posed by MPOX virus outbreaks [18]. The interplay between healthcare and MPOX encompasses several key aspects.

Within the sphere of healthcare, the response to MPOX outbreaks is a collective effort, requiring seamless coordination among healthcare systems, public health organizations, and various stakeholders [19,20,21]. This coordinated response includes early detection, effective case management, meticulous contact tracing, and the isolation of infected individuals. Such endeavors rely on adequate resources, personnel, and the joint commitment of healthcare agencies and public health organizations [22,23]. Furthermore, equitable vaccine distribution is an essential component of the healthcare response to MPOX. Healthcare systems are central to the distribution and administration of MPOX vaccines, ensuring their availability to all segments of the population [24]. Disparities in vaccine distribution can exacerbate existing health inequalities, emphasizing the significance of a healthcare-driven approach to vaccine dissemination.

In the event of an MPOX outbreak, the capacity of healthcare facilities is of paramount importance [25]. Adequate hospital capacity, which includes a sufficient number of intensive care units and ventilators, is vital in effectively managing patients, particularly those with severe MPOX cases. Ensuring this readiness is a shared responsibility that healthcare systems must fulfill [26]. The frontline healthcare workforce is directly involved in caring for MPOX patients. These dedicated professionals require specialized training, protective equipment, and support to ensure their safety and well-being while delivering optimal care. The collaboration between healthcare systems and healthcare workers is essential for maintaining an effective response during MPOX outbreaks. Additionally, healthcare organizations and professionals serve as a source of knowledge and guidance for the public [27,28]. They play a crucial role in educating communities about MPOX prevention, recognizing symptoms, and emphasizing the importance of vaccination. Public awareness and trust in the healthcare system are vital for building a cohesive and informed response. Moreover, healthcare systems are integral to the surveillance and data analysis of MPOX cases [29]. The data collected informs public health strategies and helps identify emerging trends in the spread of the virus, facilitating a more targeted and effective response. This underscores the interconnectedness of healthcare and data-driven decision-making in addressing MPOX outbreaks. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive investigation into racial and ethnic disparities in MPOX virus vaccine distribution and their interplay with demographic patterns within the United States, with a focus on the crucial role of the healthcare system.

This research seeks to illuminate how healthcare systems can address these disparities, encompassing vaccine distribution strategies and the effective management of hospital capacity during MPOX outbreaks. The objective is to identify key areas where healthcare systems can be pivotal in achieving equitable vaccine access and facilitating an efficient response to MPOX outbreaks. The ultimate goal is to offer evidence-based recommendations that empower healthcare stakeholders to strengthen healthcare-driven interventions for improved public health outcomes in the context of MPOX viruses.

2. Materials and Methods

Study design

Both datasets utilized in this study (N=29,162) were sourced from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ensuring the reliability and credibility of the data [30].

Variables

• MPOX Cases Reported to CDC by Race and Ethnicity

The first dataset encompasses MPOX virus cases reported to the CDC and spans the period from May 2022 to September 2023. It provides comprehensive insights into the evolution of MPOX cases within various racial and ethnic groups. Demographic categories included American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, Multiple Races, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, Other Race, White, and cases with Missing Race and Ethnicity [31].

• MPOX Vaccine Administration and Effectiveness by Race/Ethnicity

The second dataset also originates from the CDC and focuses on MPOX vaccine administration and its effectiveness within distinct racial and ethnic segments of the population. It details the number of first and second doses administered, along with the percentage of the population that received the first and second doses [32].

• MPOX Vaccine Administration and Effectiveness by Sex

The third dataset offers insights into MPOX vaccine administration and its effectiveness classified by sex. It includes data on the number of first and second doses administered, as well as the percentage of the population that received the first and second doses. Sex categories analyzed encompass Male, Female, and cases with Unknown sex [32].

Data Analysis

The data analysis strategy employed a multifaceted approach to investigate patterns, disparities, and vaccine effectiveness in MPOX cases among diverse racial and ethnic groups. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, were used to provide a comprehensive summary of the characteristics of MPOX cases and vaccine administration throughout the study period.

3. Results

Descriptive statistics analysis

Table 1 presents comprehensive descriptive statistics for MPOX cases, categorized by race and ethnicity, encompassing the total case count, the respective percentage within each category, and key statistical measures involving the mean and standard deviation. MPOX cases among Black or African American individuals total 9,461, comprising 32.45% of the overall cases.

Within this category, the mean number of cases stands at approximately 1,180.13, revealing a substantial level of variation in case numbers, accompanied by a standard deviation of approximately 2,375.49. Similarly, Hispanic or Latino individuals report 9,048 MPOX cases, constituting 31.03% of the total cases. In this group, the mean number of cases is approximately 1,131.00, and the standard deviation is roughly 2,208.59, indicating variations in case numbers. White individuals account for 8,600 MPOX cases, representing 29.49% of the total cases. Within this category, the mean number of cases is approximately 1,075.00, accompanied by a standard deviation of approximately 2,089.75, signifying variations in case numbers within this racial group. Additionally, Asian individuals contribute 808 MPOX cases, constituting 2.77% of the total cases, with a mean number of cases around 101.00 and a standard deviation of approximately 200.98. Furthermore, the "Other Race" category documents 606 MPOX cases, making up 2.08% of the total cases, with a mean case count of approximately 75.75 and a standard deviation of about 151.49. The Multiple Races category reports 441 MPOX cases, comprising 1.51% of the total cases, with a mean case count of around 55.13 and a standard deviation of approximately 111.58. American Indian or Alaska Native individuals experience 119 MPOX cases, representing 0.41% of the total cases. In this group, the mean case count is about 14.88, with a standard deviation of approximately 29.89. Additionally, individuals in the Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander category report 77 MPOX cases, constituting 0.26% of the total cases, with a mean case count of approximately 9.63 and a standard deviation of about 19.34.

Table 2 presents descriptive statistics related to MPOX vaccine administration by race and ethnicity, showcasing the number of first and second doses administered, as well as the corresponding percentages. Additionally, it provides calculated values for the mean and standard deviation of first and second doses administered for each racial and ethnic category. White, non-Hispanic individuals received a total of 357,531 first doses and 242,890 second doses. This represents 51% of the total first doses administered and 54% of the second doses. Hispanic or Latino individuals received 162,461 first doses and 96,428 second doses, constituting 23% of the total first doses and 21% of the second doses. Black, non-Hispanic individuals received 88,134 first doses and 51,949 second doses, accounting for 12% of the total first doses and 11% of the second doses. Asian, non-Hispanic individuals received 52,288 first doses and 32,912 second doses, representing 7% of the total first doses and 7% of the second doses. Other, non-Hispanic individuals received 19,159 first doses and 10,542 second doses, constituting 3% of the total first doses and 2% of the second doses. American Indian/Alaska Native, non-Hispanic individuals received 3,021 first doses and 1,767 second doses. Multiple, non-Hispanic individuals received 20,173 first doses and 14,100 second doses. Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander, non-Hispanic individuals received 1,830 first doses and 1,085 second doses.

Table 3 provides an overview of MPOX vaccine administration categorized by gender, encompassing the number of first and second doses administered, the respective percentages, and the calculated mean and standard deviation for both first and second doses.

Male individuals accounted for a substantial share of vaccine doses, with a total of 695,471 first doses and 449,205 second doses, making up 91% and 94% of the overall first and second doses, respectively. The mean number of first doses administered to males is estimated at approximately 347,735.50, displaying a significant degree of variability, as indicated by a standard deviation of around 411,838.50. Similarly, for second doses, males received an average of approximately 224,602.50, with a standard deviation of roughly 224,815.50, underscoring the variation in doses administered. In contrast, female individuals received 68,371 first doses and 31,046 second doses, representing 9% and 6% of the total first and second doses, respectively. The mean number of first doses administered to females is approximately 34,185.50, with a standard deviation of around 48,162.50, highlighting variations in the number of doses administered. For second doses, the mean number received by females is approximately 15,523.00, with a standard deviation of about 21,981.00, signifying fluctuations in dose administration within this group.

4. Discussion

Monkeypox is an illness resulting from infection with the human monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same virus family as smallpox [33,34]. Strikingly, its symptoms closely resemble those of smallpox, encompassing fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, and cold symptoms such as a cough or sore throat. These symptoms are often accompanied by a characteristic rash that forms blisters on various parts of the body, including the face, genitals, chest, back, hands, and feet (Figure 1; 34). In some cases, individuals may also experience painful sores in their mouth or other internal areas. For most individuals, the disease typically resolves within two to three weeks. Monkeypox is primarily transmitted through close physical contact with an infected person, predominantly via skin-to-skin contact, especially with the rashes and skin lesions characteristic of the disease. However, it can also spread through the release of large respiratory droplets, such as those generated by coughing and sneezing [35,36].

Regarding the hypothetical MPOX, a viral infection predominantly transmitted through close physical contact, including sexual activity, the implications are considerable in the realm of public health. This study unveils notable trends and disparities in MPOX cases, vaccine administration, and vaccination rates across different racial and gender categories. It’s essential to underscore those viral infections primarily transmitted through close physical contact, such as sexual activity, have the potential to affect individuals across diverse demographics [37]. The disparities elucidated in the data, particularly in vaccine administration and vaccination rates, emphasize the importance of targeted public health interventions. Importantly, these disparities aren’t uniform across racial and gender categories. Notably, males received the majority of vaccine doses, particularly second doses, raising questions about the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns among other demographic groups, including females and those categorized as "unknown." Furthermore, previous studies have highlighted that the majority of monkeypox infections are attributed to sexual contact, with a significant percentage involving rashes, mainly on the genitals, and a substantial portion presenting sores within the body, including the mouth or anus [38].

In a previous study, as evidenced by a report from the British Health Security Agency indicating that 97% of 699 monkeypox cases were observed in gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men (MSM). [39] Addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, notably sexually active gay, bisexual, and other Men who have sex with men (MSM), is critical in controlling the spread of MPOX. Such groups may necessitate tailored public health strategies ensuring accessible, affordable, and culturally sensitive vaccines [40,41]. This study underscores the urgency for discussions and actions within the public health sector to formulate strategies addressing the unique needs of these specific populations. Additionally, this study highlights significant variations in the number of MPOX cases across diverse racial and ethnic categories, emphasizing the necessity for culturally sensitive approaches in vaccination campaigns, particularly in communities with substantial numbers of cases, such as Black or African American and Hispanic or Latino populations.

This study underscores the importance of comprehending the demographics and disparities linked to MPOX cases and vaccine administration. This knowledge necessitates the development of comprehensive public health strategies to cater to the specific requirements of diverse communities and populations, particularly those at elevated risk. This approach should be rooted in principles of equity, ensuring equitable access and distribution of vaccines. These insights should serve as the foundation for policymaking and public health endeavors aimed at curbing the spread of MPOX while safeguarding the health of all individuals, irrespective of their demographic attributes.

5. Conclusions

The study related to vaccine administration raises questions about the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns. Notably, a skewed distribution of vaccine doses is observed, with males receiving the majority of doses, particularly in the case of second doses. This prompts further examination of vaccine coverage across different demographic groups, such as females and those categorized as "unknown," to ensure that vaccination efforts are inclusive and reach all segments of the population. These findings should serve as a catalyst for policy development and public health initiatives focused on controlling and mitigating the spread of MPOX while upholding health equity principles. Targeted strategies, cultural sensitivity, and equitable vaccine distribution should be at the forefront of our response to this emerging public health challenge. In summary, this study contributes valuable insights from a healthcare perspective, shedding light on the complex web of disparities and viral transmission patterns associated with MPOX. It underscores the pressing need for a multifaceted approach to address these issues and safeguard the well-being of all individuals affected by this emerging viral infection.