# Mpox transmission and research in Germany

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mpox-transmission-and-research-in-germany
> Updated: 2026-09-01T10:05:21.000Z. Sources: 14. Developments: 2.

Health authorities in Berlin have reported a shift in Mpox transmission patterns. While infections have primarily affected men who have sex with men, data from the State Office for Health and Social Affairs (Lageso) indicates an increase in cases among women and heterosexual contacts. Berlin has recorded 156 cases so far this year, exceeding totals from previous years.

In related medical research, scientists from Goethe University and the University Medical Center Frankfurt have identified that semen can facilitate Mpox infection. The study found that proteins in semen form fibers that assist the virus in attaching to human cells. Researchers noted this provides an explanation for the high risk of transmission during sexual contact, particularly when semen touches anal or genital mucous membranes. Lead researcher Denisa Bojkova suggested these findings may eventually lead to new preventative approaches designed to inhibit the virus.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-01: Frankfurt researchers find semen facilitates Mpox infection

A Frankfurt research team found that semen facilitates Mpox infection by helping the virus attach to human cells, explaining the high transmission risk during sexual contact.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/frankfurt-researchers-find-semen-facilitates-mpox-infection

### 2026-08-27: Berlin reports shift in Mpox transmission patterns

Authorities in Berlin report Mpox is increasingly spreading through heterosexual contact, marking a shift from previous patterns primarily affecting men who have sex with men.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/berlin-reports-shift-in-mpox-transmission-patterns

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Cite as: Mpox transmission and research in Germany. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mpox-transmission-and-research-in-germany