The viral infection Mpox first occurred in Berlin in the summer of 2022 among men who have sex with men.
Since early 2026, Mpox clade 1b has been occurring more frequently in Berlin. However, there is no evidence to date that clade 1b infections are more severe. Vaccination is still highly recommended!
Good to know
Mpox is transmitted mainly through close physical contact (e.g. sex) and usually heals on its own. However, severe cases exist.
Symptoms (includes photos)A few days to 3 weeks after infection, symptoms of mpox first appear.
Early symptoms may include fever, swollen lymph nodes in the groin, headaches and joint/muscle pain.
Skin lesions typically follow: Spots appear and develop into pimples, blisters, pustules and finally scabs. They often occur in groups, but can also appear singularly. They may first appear around the genitals or anus and can also occur inside the mouth. They may be very painful.
Mpox is transmitted primarily through close skin contact, such as sex, kissing, or cuddling.
Also possible is transmission through shared sex toys or through contact with bedding or towels used by a person who currently has mpox.
Patients are infectious until symptoms are gone, the skin has healed and all scabs have fallen off. This takes around 3 weeks.
Vaccination is the best protection against mpox.
→ Where can I get vaccinated?
Deutsche Aidshilfe has further information.
In case of symptoms
Do you have symptoms or suspicions? We recommend consulting an HIV/STI specialist near you. These practices are most familiar with mpox and queer lifestyles.
If you are in a lot of pain or it’s the weekend you can also visit a hospital:
- St. Joseph Hospital – Tempelhof
- Vivantes Auguste-Viktoria Klinikum – Schöneberg
- Charité – Mitte
Where can I get vaccinated?
There is a vaccination against mpox. It is covered by statutory health insurance and is recommended for:
- Men*, TIN persons who have sex with men*, with frequently changing partners
- Sex workers who are TIN and/or have sex with MSM
- People who have recently had close skin contact with someone who is diagnosed with mpox (i.e., even after a risk has occurred)
Your best bet is to ask your HIV/STI specialist who e.g. provides your PrEP.
For people at risk without health insurance, free vaccinations are offered here:
- Checkpoint BLN: if you are MSM or TIN
- Gesundheitsamt Mitte: Men or TIN persons who have sex with men and frequently change sexual partners / sex worker TIN persons or sex workers who have sex with MSM
- Zentrum für sexuelle Gesundheit & Familienplanung Mitte-Tiergarten:
Send e-mail (with a callback number) - Department of vaccination
Send e-mail (with a callback number), or by telephone appointment at 030 9081 45513 or 030 9081 45275
- Zentrum für sexuelle Gesundheit & Familienplanung Mitte-Tiergarten:
All medical practices and hospitals that provide mpox vaccinations in Berlin: