Author: Jennifer Rigby, Julie Steenhuysen

Mutating ‘More Rapidly’: The Evolution of Mpox An orthopoxvirus similar to smallpox, Mpox has recently shown signs of accelerated mutation due to the APOBEC3 genetic signature. This mutation, identified in clade Ib infections that emerged in September 2023, is causing the virus to evolve at a faster rate than anticipated. Dr. Miguel Paredes of Fred Hutchison Cancer Center in Seattle stated that the virus, previously known for its stability and slow mutation rate, is now mutating more rapidly due to APOBEC-driven mutations. This has led to multiple outbreaks of the virus, complicating response efforts. While Mpox was traditionally transmitted through…