Prior Sexually Transmitted Infections and HIV in Patients With Mpox, Chicago, Illinois (June 2022-March 2023).

HIV is associated with severe mpox. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) could facilitate mpox transmission. We estimated HIV and STI frequency among patients with mpox and compared characteristics associated with mpox severity. Mpox cases during 1 June 2022 to 31 March 2023 were matched to Illinois HIV/AIDS surveillance data. Among 1124 patients with mpox, 489 (44%) had HIV and 786 (70%) had prior or concurrent STI; 307 (39%) had ≥3 STI episodes. More patients with mpox who were living with HIV were hospitalized than those without HIV (10.3% vs 4.1%, P < .001). STI screening visits are opportunities to vaccinate against mpox and provide HIV prophylaxis or treatment.

Impact of COVID-19 and Mpox on Sexual Practices and Disease Mitigation Strategies Over Time among Men who Have Sex with Men Affiliated with Collective Sex Venues.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent multi-national mpox outbreak significantly disrupted sexual health care delivery, particularly impacting men who have sex with men (MSM). This study investigated these public health emergencies in relation to perceptions, attitudes, and sexual practices among MSM affiliated with a collective sex venue (CSV). METHODS: Electronic surveys were sent to clientele of a high-volume CSV between June 2021 and November 2022 across three time periods defined as pre-Omicron, post-Omicron, and mpox. Data collection encompassed sociodemographics, healthcare access, STI/HIV status, COVID-19 testing, and sexual behaviors. Multivariable regression analyses identified factors associated with self-reported COVID-19 testing and positivity, and mpox exposure. RESULTS: Among 1,135 responses, demographics were largely cisgender MSM and predominantly White. Increased self-reported COVID-19 positivity was associated with having more sex partners and frequenting bathhouses for meeting sex partners. Confidence in COVID-19 mitigation strategies decreased post-Omicron. Factors linked to mpox exposure included younger age, increased sex partners, STI positivity, and lower confidence in mitigation strategies. DISCUSSION: These findings underscore the intersectionality between sexual behaviors and public health responses to COVID-19 and mpox among MSM communities affiliated with a CSV. Decreased confidence in mitigation strategies and changes in sexual behaviors during public health emergencies underscore the need for targeted interventions and messaging. Collaboration between health departments and CSVs can facilitate responses to current and future public health threats and interventions.