Long-term Consequences of Mpox Infection: Clinical Outcomes, Quality of Life, and Patient Rehabilitation

The global emergence of mpox as a significant public health concern has necessitated a comprehensive understanding not only of its acute clinical manifestations but also of its long-term consequences on human health and wellbeing. While the immediate symptoms and management of mpox infection have been extensively documented, the enduring effects that persist months and years after initial recovery represent a critical yet underexplored dimension of this disease. These long-term consequences encompass a complex spectrum of physical, psychological, and social impacts that can profoundly affect patients’ quality of life and functional capacity long after the resolution of acute symptoms.

The significance of understanding post-mpox sequelae extends beyond individual patient care to encompass broader public health implications, healthcare resource allocation, and the development of comprehensive treatment strategies that address the full continuum of disease impact. As healthcare systems worldwide continue to manage mpox cases, the recognition and management of long-term consequences becomes increasingly important for ensuring optimal patient outcomes and reducing the overall burden of disease on affected individuals and communities.

Pathophysiological Foundations of Long-term Sequelae

The development of persistent complications following mpox infection stems from complex pathophysiological processes that occur during the acute phase of illness and may continue to evolve throughout the recovery period. The mpox virus, belonging to the orthopoxvirus family, demonstrates a particular tropism for epithelial tissues, including skin, mucous membranes, and various organ systems, leading to characteristic lesions that can result in permanent tissue damage and functional impairment.

During acute infection, the virus-induced inflammatory response triggers a cascade of immune-mediated processes that, while essential for viral clearance, can also contribute to tissue destruction and subsequent scarring. The depth and extent of viral penetration into dermal and subdermal tissues determine the severity of tissue damage and the likelihood of permanent sequelae. Deep-seated lesions that extend into the dermis and subcutaneous tissues are more likely to result in significant scarring, contractures, and functional limitations compared to superficial lesions confined to the epidermis.

The healing process following mpox lesion resolution involves complex tissue remodeling mechanisms that can lead to both hypertrophic and atrophic scarring patterns. Collagen deposition during the repair phase may be excessive or inadequate, resulting in raised, thickened scars or depressed, atrophic areas respectively. The location of lesions significantly influences the functional impact of scarring, with lesions over joints, facial areas, and genital regions potentially causing the most significant long-term morbidity.

Secondary bacterial infections, which complicate a substantial proportion of mpox cases, contribute significantly to the development of severe scarring and tissue damage. These superinfections can deepen existing lesions, extend the duration of tissue inflammation, and lead to more extensive tissue destruction than would occur with viral infection alone. The presence of secondary infection represents one of the most important modifiable risk factors for severe long-term complications.

Dermatological Sequelae and Scarring Patterns

The dermatological consequences of mpox infection represent the most visible and frequently encountered long-term effects, with scarring patterns varying significantly based on lesion characteristics, anatomical location, and individual healing responses. Atrophic scars, characterized by depressed areas where tissue loss has occurred, commonly develop at sites of deep ulcerative lesions and can create significant cosmetic concerns, particularly when located on visible areas such as the face, neck, and extremities.

Hypertrophic scarring and keloid formation occur less frequently but can cause substantial functional impairment when they develop over joint surfaces or in areas subject to mechanical stress. These raised, thickened scars may continue to grow and evolve for months after initial healing, requiring ongoing monitoring and potential intervention to prevent contracture formation and functional limitation.

Pigmentary changes accompanying scar formation can persist for extended periods, with both hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation observed at sites of previous lesions. These pigmentary alterations may be more pronounced in individuals with darker skin types and can cause significant psychological distress due to their cosmetic impact. The irregular distribution of pigmentary changes can create a mottled appearance that serves as a permanent reminder of the infection experience.

Contracture formation represents one of the most functionally significant dermatological sequelae, particularly when scars cross joint lines or involve areas of high skin mobility. Facial contractures can affect expression, speech, and eating, while contractures involving the hands, fingers, or other extremities can impair fine motor function and activities of daily living. The prevention and management of contractures require early recognition and intervention during the healing phase.

The psychological impact of visible scarring cannot be understated, as permanent changes in appearance can lead to decreased self-esteem, social withdrawal, and significant impacts on quality of life. The visibility and extent of scarring often correlate more strongly with psychological distress than with functional impairment, highlighting the importance of addressing both physical and psychological aspects of scar-related morbidity.

Neurological and Cognitive Complications

Neurological complications following mpox infection, while less common than dermatological sequelae, can have profound and lasting impacts on cognitive function, motor abilities, and overall quality of life. Encephalitis, one of the most serious acute complications of mpox, can result in persistent neurological deficits including memory impairment, cognitive dysfunction, seizure disorders, and focal neurological deficits that may persist long after the resolution of acute symptoms.

Post-encephalitic syndrome represents a complex constellation of neurological and psychiatric symptoms that can develop following mpox-associated encephalitis. Patients may experience persistent headaches, cognitive fog, concentration difficulties, and memory problems that significantly impact their ability to return to work or maintain normal daily activities. These cognitive symptoms may be subtle and difficult to quantify but can have substantial impacts on quality of life and functional capacity.

Peripheral neuropathy, though uncommon, has been reported as a long-term complication of mpox infection, potentially resulting from direct viral invasion of peripheral nerves or immune-mediated nerve damage. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and weakness in affected extremities, with recovery varying from complete resolution to persistent deficits requiring ongoing management.

Seizure disorders may develop in patients who experienced central nervous system involvement during acute infection, requiring long-term antiepileptic therapy and regular neurological monitoring. The risk of seizure development appears to correlate with the severity of acute neurological involvement and may persist for months to years following initial infection.

Sleep disturbances and fatigue syndromes have been reported as persistent complications in some patients, potentially reflecting ongoing central nervous system effects or the broader impact of chronic illness on sleep architecture and circadian rhythms. These symptoms can significantly impact quality of life and may require comprehensive evaluation and management approaches addressing both sleep hygiene and underlying neurological factors.

Ocular Manifestations and Visual Impairment

Ocular involvement in mpox infection can lead to serious long-term visual complications that may not become apparent until weeks or months after the resolution of acute symptoms. Keratitis, conjunctivitis, and eyelid lesions during acute infection can result in corneal scarring, irregular astigmatism, and permanent visual impairment that significantly impacts quality of life and functional capacity.

Corneal scarring represents the most serious ocular sequela, potentially leading to significant visual impairment or blindness in affected eyes. The location and extent of corneal involvement determine the severity of visual impact, with central corneal scars causing more significant visual impairment than peripheral scarring. Dense corneal scarring may require corneal transplantation to restore useful vision, though the success of such procedures depends on various factors including the extent of scarring and the presence of other ocular complications.

Eyelid scarring and contractures can result from healing of periorbital lesions, potentially leading to ectropion, entropion, or lagophthalmos that can cause secondary corneal problems and visual disturbance. These complications may require surgical correction to prevent progressive corneal damage and restore normal eyelid function.

Dry eye syndrome may develop as a consequence of conjunctival scarring, meibomian gland dysfunction, or eyelid malposition following mpox infection. This condition can cause chronic discomfort, visual disturbance, and increased risk of corneal complications, requiring ongoing ophthalmological management and treatment.

The psychological impact of visual impairment following mpox infection extends beyond the direct functional limitations, affecting self-confidence, social interactions, and ability to perform work-related tasks. Patients experiencing visual complications require comprehensive ophthalmological evaluation and ongoing monitoring to detect and manage potential complications early in their development.

Sexual and Reproductive Health Consequences

The impact of mpox infection on sexual and reproductive health represents a particularly sensitive and often underaddressed aspect of long-term consequences that can have profound effects on intimate relationships and overall quality of life. Genital and perigenital lesions, which are common in the recent outbreak strains, can lead to scarring, functional impairment, and psychological distress that persists long after the resolution of acute symptoms.

Genital scarring can affect sexual function through multiple mechanisms, including painful intercourse, reduced sensation, and anatomical distortion that may interfere with normal sexual activity. Men may experience scarring of the penile shaft, glans, or foreskin that can affect erectile function, ejaculation, or cause pain during sexual activity. Women may develop vaginal, vulvar, or perineal scarring that can result in dyspareunia, reduced vaginal elasticity, or anatomical changes that affect sexual comfort and satisfaction.

Psychological factors play a significant role in sexual dysfunction following mpox infection, with many patients experiencing anxiety, fear of transmission, or body image concerns that can persist long after they are no longer infectious. The stigma associated with mpox infection, particularly given its association with sexual transmission in recent outbreaks, can contribute to shame, social isolation, and relationship difficulties that compound the physical effects of the infection.

Fertility concerns may arise in patients who experienced severe genital involvement, though direct impacts on reproductive capacity appear to be rare. However, the psychological stress and relationship difficulties associated with mpox infection can indirectly affect reproductive health and family planning decisions.

The management of sexual health consequences requires a multidisciplinary approach involving dermatologists, urologists, gynecologists, and mental health professionals to address both the physical and psychological aspects of sexual dysfunction. Early intervention and counseling can help prevent the development of chronic sexual difficulties and relationship problems.

Psychological and Psychiatric Sequelae

The psychological impact of mpox infection extends far beyond the acute illness period, with many patients experiencing lasting mental health consequences that can significantly affect their quality of life and functional capacity. The visible nature of mpox lesions, the stigma associated with the infection, and the potential for permanent scarring can contribute to the development of anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other psychiatric conditions.

Body dysmorphic concerns may develop in patients with visible scarring, particularly when lesions affect the face or other highly visible areas. These concerns can lead to social withdrawal, avoidance behaviors, and significant impairment in occupational and social functioning. The extent of psychological distress often correlates more strongly with the patient’s perception of scarring severity than with objective measures of physical impairment.

Post-traumatic stress symptoms may develop in relation to the acute illness experience, particularly in patients who required hospitalization, experienced severe complications, or had concerns about potential death or permanent disability. Intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and avoidance behaviors related to medical settings or infection-related triggers can persist for months after recovery.

Social stigma and discrimination represent significant psychological stressors for many mpox survivors, particularly given the association between mpox transmission and sexual activity in recent outbreaks. Patients may experience rejection from family members, friends, or romantic partners, leading to social isolation and decreased social support that can exacerbate other psychological symptoms.

Adjustment disorders may develop as patients attempt to cope with the long-term consequences of their infection, including physical limitations, changes in appearance, or impacts on relationships and career. The adaptation process can be prolonged and may require professional psychological support to facilitate healthy coping strategies and resilience building.

Depression and anxiety symptoms are common among mpox survivors, particularly those experiencing significant physical or social consequences from their infection. These symptoms may be reactive to the specific circumstances of mpox infection or may represent the exacerbation of pre-existing mental health conditions under the stress of illness and recovery.

Quality of Life Assessment and Measurement

The evaluation of quality of life impacts following mpox infection requires comprehensive, standardized assessment tools that can capture the multidimensional nature of post-infection consequences. Generic quality of life measures provide broad assessments of functional status and wellbeing, while disease-specific instruments may be needed to capture the unique aspects of mpox-related impairment.

The Dermatology Life Quality Index has emerged as a valuable tool for assessing the impact of skin-related complications on daily functioning, social interactions, and psychological wellbeing. This instrument provides quantitative measures of quality of life impairment that can be used to track changes over time and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions designed to improve patient outcomes.

Functional assessment scales that evaluate activities of daily living, work capacity, and social functioning provide important information about the practical impacts of mpox sequelae on patients’ ability to maintain independence and fulfill social and occupational roles. These assessments can guide rehabilitation planning and identify areas where additional support or intervention may be needed.

Pain assessment represents a crucial component of quality of life evaluation, as chronic pain related to scarring, contractures, or neuropathic complications can significantly impact daily functioning and overall wellbeing. Standardized pain scales and functional pain assessments can help guide pain management strategies and monitor treatment effectiveness.

Sexual function questionnaires provide important information about the impact of mpox infection on intimate relationships and sexual wellbeing, though these assessments require sensitivity and appropriate clinical context to ensure patient comfort and accurate reporting.

Psychological assessment tools, including measures of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, and body image concerns, are essential for identifying patients who may benefit from mental health interventions and for monitoring the effectiveness of psychological treatments.

Risk Factors for Severe Long-term Complications

The identification of risk factors associated with severe long-term complications following mpox infection is crucial for early identification of high-risk patients and implementation of preventive strategies to minimize the likelihood of persistent sequelae. Patient-related factors, infection characteristics, and management variables all contribute to the risk of developing significant long-term complications.

Immunocompromised states represent one of the most important risk factors for severe complications and poor long-term outcomes following mpox infection. Patients with HIV infection, particularly those with low CD4 counts, patients receiving immunosuppressive medications, and those with primary immunodeficiencies are at increased risk for severe acute disease and subsequent long-term complications. The impaired immune response in these patients may lead to prolonged viral replication, deeper tissue involvement, and increased susceptibility to secondary bacterial infections.

The development of secondary bacterial infections during the acute phase of illness significantly increases the risk of severe scarring and long-term complications. Staphylococcal and streptococcal superinfections can deepen existing lesions, extend the duration of tissue inflammation, and lead to more extensive tissue destruction than would occur with viral infection alone. Early recognition and treatment of secondary infections can help minimize long-term complications.

Lesion characteristics, including size, depth, and anatomical location, influence the likelihood of significant scarring and functional impairment. Large lesions, particularly those exceeding two centimeters in diameter, are more likely to result in permanent scarring than smaller lesions. Deep ulcerative lesions that extend into the dermis and subcutaneous tissues carry higher risk for scarring than superficial vesicular or pustular lesions.

Anatomical location plays a crucial role in determining the functional impact of scarring, with lesions over joint surfaces, the face, hands, and genital areas more likely to result in functional impairment or psychosocial distress. The number and density of lesions in a given anatomical region also influence the severity of scarring and potential for contracture formation.

Host factors including age, genetic predisposition to keloid formation, skin type, and pre-existing dermatological conditions may influence healing patterns and the likelihood of developing significant scarring. Older patients may experience slower healing and increased risk of complications, while individuals with a history of abnormal scarring may be at higher risk for hypertrophic scar formation.

Delayed or inadequate medical care during the acute phase of illness may contribute to increased risk of complications and poor long-term outcomes. Early antiviral therapy, appropriate wound care, and prompt treatment of secondary infections can help minimize tissue damage and reduce the likelihood of severe sequelae.

Rehabilitation Strategies and Interventions

The development of comprehensive rehabilitation strategies for patients experiencing long-term consequences of mpox infection requires a multidisciplinary approach that addresses the diverse physical, psychological, and social impacts of post-infection sequelae. Early intervention during the acute and subacute phases of recovery can help prevent the development of severe complications and optimize long-term outcomes.

Physical rehabilitation strategies focus primarily on the prevention and management of contractures, optimization of functional capacity, and management of pain and discomfort associated with scarring and tissue changes. Range-of-motion exercises initiated early in the recovery process can help prevent joint contractures and maintain functional mobility, particularly when lesions are located over or near joint surfaces.

Scar management techniques play a crucial role in optimizing cosmetic and functional outcomes following mpox infection. Silicone gel sheets and topical silicone preparations have demonstrated efficacy in improving scar appearance and texture, particularly when initiated early in the healing process. These interventions work by maintaining optimal hydration and creating favorable conditions for collagen remodeling.

Pressure therapy using compression garments or pressure-sensitive adhesive materials can help flatten and soften hypertrophic scars while preventing excessive collagen deposition during the healing phase. The effectiveness of pressure therapy depends on consistent application and appropriate pressure levels, requiring patient education and regular monitoring to ensure compliance and optimal outcomes.

Massage therapy and manual techniques can help improve scar flexibility, reduce adhesions, and enhance circulation in healing tissues. These interventions are particularly beneficial for patients with extensive scarring or areas of tissue tightness that may contribute to functional limitations or discomfort.

Topical treatments including corticosteroids, retinoids, and other anti-inflammatory agents may be beneficial for managing hypertrophic scars and reducing inflammatory changes in healing tissues. These treatments require careful monitoring for side effects and may need to be continued for extended periods to achieve optimal results.

Advanced therapeutic interventions including laser therapy, microneedling, and injectable treatments may be beneficial for patients with severe scarring that does not respond to conservative management. Fractional laser therapy can help improve scar texture and appearance by promoting collagen remodeling and reducing irregular pigmentation. Intralesional corticosteroid injections may be effective for treating hypertrophic scars and keloids that develop following infection.

Psychological Support and Mental Health Interventions

The psychological consequences of mpox infection require comprehensive mental health interventions that address both the direct psychological impacts of the illness experience and the ongoing effects of living with long-term physical consequences. Early psychological screening and intervention can help identify patients at risk for developing serious mental health complications and provide appropriate support and treatment.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy represents one of the most effective interventions for addressing anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress symptoms that may develop following mpox infection. CBT techniques can help patients develop coping strategies, challenge negative thought patterns, and gradually overcome avoidance behaviors that may develop in response to trauma or stigma associated with their infection.

Body image counseling may be particularly beneficial for patients experiencing distress related to visible scarring or changes in physical appearance. These interventions can help patients develop realistic expectations about healing, identify strategies for managing social situations, and build confidence in their ability to maintain meaningful relationships and activities despite physical changes.

Support groups and peer counseling can provide valuable opportunities for patients to connect with others who have experienced similar challenges, share coping strategies, and reduce feelings of isolation and stigma. Both in-person and virtual support groups can be effective, with online formats potentially offering greater accessibility and anonymity for patients concerned about stigma.

Family and relationship counseling may be important for addressing the impact of mpox infection on intimate relationships and family dynamics. Partners and family members may also experience anxiety, stigma, or relationship difficulties that require professional support and intervention.

Trauma-informed care approaches recognize that many aspects of the mpox infection experience, including hospitalization, isolation, stigma, and fear of complications or death, may be traumatic for patients. Mental health interventions should be designed to avoid retraumatization while helping patients process their experiences and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Psychiatric medication management may be necessary for patients developing significant mood disorders, anxiety disorders, or other psychiatric conditions following mpox infection. Antidepressants, anxiolytics, and other psychotropic medications can be effective components of comprehensive treatment plans when used in conjunction with psychotherapeutic interventions.

Social Reintegration and Occupational Rehabilitation

The process of social reintegration following mpox infection can be challenging for many patients, particularly those experiencing visible scarring, functional limitations, or ongoing stigma related to their infection. Comprehensive rehabilitation programs should address these social and occupational challenges to help patients return to meaningful roles and activities in their communities.

Occupational rehabilitation assessments can help identify work-related limitations and develop strategies for returning to employment while managing ongoing physical or psychological effects of infection. Accommodations such as modified work schedules, ergonomic adjustments, or alternative duties may be necessary for patients experiencing functional limitations related to scarring or contractures.

Vocational training and career counseling may be beneficial for patients whose infections have resulted in permanent disabilities that prevent return to their previous occupations. These services can help identify alternative career paths that are compatible with residual limitations while maximizing patients’ skills and interests.

Social skills training and assertiveness training can help patients develop confidence in managing social situations where they may encounter questions, stares, or comments related to visible scarring or their infection history. These interventions can help reduce social anxiety and improve quality of life by enabling more comfortable social interactions.

Disability advocacy and legal support may be necessary for patients experiencing discrimination in employment, housing, or other areas of life related to their infection history or residual disabilities. Understanding legal protections and available resources can help patients advocate for their rights and access necessary accommodations.

Community education and stigma reduction efforts can help create more supportive environments for mpox survivors by increasing understanding of the infection, its transmission, and the experiences of those affected. Healthcare providers, employers, and community organizations all have roles to play in reducing stigma and supporting successful reintegration.

Long-term Monitoring and Follow-up Care

The development of comprehensive long-term monitoring protocols is essential for ensuring optimal outcomes for mpox survivors and early detection of complications that may develop months or years after initial infection. Regular follow-up care should be tailored to individual patient needs based on the severity of acute illness, presence of complications, and ongoing symptoms or concerns.

Dermatological monitoring should include regular assessment of scar maturation, contracture development, and any changes in appearance or symptoms that might indicate complications or need for intervention. Photography can be valuable for documenting changes over time and guiding treatment decisions.

Ophthalmological follow-up is crucial for patients who experienced any degree of ocular involvement during acute infection, as complications such as corneal scarring or secondary glaucoma may develop gradually and require ongoing monitoring and management.

Neurological assessment should be continued for patients who experienced any central or peripheral nervous system involvement during acute infection, with particular attention to cognitive function, seizure activity, and development of any new neurological symptoms.

Mental health monitoring should be incorporated into routine follow-up care, with screening for depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and other psychological complications that may develop or persist following infection. Early identification and treatment of mental health issues can significantly improve long-term outcomes and quality of life.

Functional assessment should evaluate patients’ ability to perform activities of daily living, work-related tasks, and social activities, with particular attention to any limitations that may require ongoing rehabilitation or accommodation.

Pain assessment and management should be ongoing for patients experiencing chronic pain related to scarring, contractures, or neuropathic complications. Regular evaluation of pain levels and functional impact can guide treatment decisions and help optimize pain management strategies.

Sexual health follow-up should be provided in a sensitive, appropriate manner for patients who experienced genital or perigenital lesions, with attention to both physical function and psychological aspects of sexual wellbeing.

Economic Impact and Healthcare Resource Utilization

The long-term consequences of mpox infection generate significant economic impacts at both individual and societal levels, affecting healthcare costs, productivity, and quality of life in ways that extend far beyond the acute illness period. Understanding these economic implications is crucial for healthcare planning, resource allocation, and policy development related to mpox prevention and treatment.

Direct medical costs associated with long-term mpox complications include ongoing dermatological care, surgical interventions for scar revision or contracture release, mental health services, rehabilitation therapy, and specialized treatments such as laser therapy or reconstructive procedures. These costs can accumulate over months to years following initial infection and may represent a substantial financial burden for patients and healthcare systems.

Indirect costs related to lost productivity, disability benefits, and reduced earning capacity can be substantial for patients experiencing significant functional limitations or psychological sequelae. The impact on employment and career advancement may be particularly pronounced for patients with visible scarring or those working in occupations requiring specific physical capabilities or public interaction.

The cost-effectiveness of preventive interventions, including vaccination programs and public health measures designed to reduce transmission, must consider not only the prevention of acute illness but also the avoidance of long-term complications and their associated costs. Economic analyses that include long-term consequence costs may demonstrate greater cost-effectiveness for prevention strategies than analyses focusing solely on acute illness prevention.

Healthcare utilization patterns following mpox infection may include increased use of dermatological services, mental health care, rehabilitation services, and specialized treatments not typically required by the general population. Understanding these utilization patterns can help healthcare systems plan for resource needs and ensure appropriate availability of specialized services.

The economic burden on families and caregivers may be substantial, particularly for patients requiring ongoing assistance with activities of daily living or those experiencing mental health complications that affect their ability to maintain independence. Support services and caregiver resources may be necessary components of comprehensive care programs.

Future Research Directions and Knowledge Gaps

Despite growing recognition of the importance of long-term consequences following mpox infection, significant knowledge gaps remain that require additional research to optimize patient care and outcomes. These research priorities span basic science, clinical research, and health services research domains.

Natural history studies with extended follow-up periods are needed to better understand the evolution of complications over time, identify factors that predict resolution or progression of symptoms, and determine optimal timing for various interventions. Prospective cohort studies with standardized assessment protocols can provide valuable data about the incidence, severity, and risk factors for long-term complications.

Intervention studies evaluating the effectiveness of various rehabilitation strategies, scar management techniques, and psychological interventions are needed to establish evidence-based treatment protocols for patients experiencing long-term consequences. Randomized controlled trials comparing different approaches to scar management, contracture prevention, and psychological support can help identify the most effective interventions.

Biomarker research may help identify patients at highest risk for developing severe complications, enabling targeted interventions and more intensive monitoring for high-risk individuals. Genetic, immunological, and inflammatory markers may provide insights into the mechanisms underlying different healing patterns and complication risks.

Health services research examining healthcare utilization patterns, cost-effectiveness of different care models, and barriers to accessing appropriate care can inform policy decisions and program development aimed at improving outcomes for mpox survivors.

Quality of life research using validated instruments specifically designed for mpox survivors can provide better understanding of the impact of different types of complications on patient wellbeing and help prioritize intervention targets for maximum benefit.

Stigma and discrimination research can provide insights into the social factors affecting mpox survivors and guide development of interventions aimed at reducing stigma and improving social support for affected individuals.

The comprehensive understanding and management of long-term consequences following mpox infection represents a critical component of healthcare response to this emerging infectious disease. The recognition that mpox infection can result in significant long-term morbidity affecting physical function, psychological wellbeing, and quality of life underscores the importance of developing comprehensive care models that address the full spectrum of patient needs throughout the recovery process. As our understanding of these long-term consequences continues to evolve, healthcare providers, researchers, and policymakers must work together to ensure that mpox survivors receive appropriate, evidence-based care that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of their recovery journey. The development of standardized assessment protocols, evidence-based intervention strategies, and comprehensive support services will be essential for optimizing outcomes and minimizing the long-term burden of mpox infection on individuals and communities worldwide.