MPOX IN BRAZIL: CURRENT CHALLENGES IN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL SURVEILLANCE, RESPONSE OF THE BRAZILIAN UNIFIED HEALTH SYSTEM (SUS), AND CONTROL STRATEGIES IN THE FACE OF EMERGING DISEASES

Abstract

Mpox has become a significant public health challenge in Brazil since 2022, requiring rapid and coordinated responses in the context of a global health emergency. In Brazil, virus transmission highlighted the importance of active epidemiological surveillance, timely compulsory notification, and the expansion of laboratory diagnostic capacity, particularly in densely populated regions and areas with intense international mobility. This qualitative, descriptive-analytical study is based on a narrative literature review and on official technical documents and epidemiological bulletins published between 2022 and 2025. The findings indicate that the Unified Health System (SUS) played a central role in coordinating the national response by establishing clinical protocols, organizing care pathways, promoting professional training, and implementing vaccination and health communication strategies. However, persistent challenges remain, including underreporting, regional inequalities in access to services, the need for stronger integration between surveillance and primary health care, and the reduction of stigma associated with the disease. It is concluded that continuous strengthening of epidemiological surveillance, combined with intersectoral policies, health education initiatives, and sustained investment in the SUS, is essential to enhance preparedness and response to Mpox and other emerging diseases.