Chat message

In context

A single line often inverts meaning once you see what it answers, so neighbouring messages are always shown.

1. 2022-05-23 14:06 Edward C. Holmes open
   Dear Eddie, I hope you're well. Wondering if you're following the MPX story? A well-placed source told me that there will be some research coming out this week from Europe showing that MPX can be transmitted sexually through the semen (/?vaginal fluid) of an infected person, reminiscent of Ebola virus disease.It seems possible that MPX has been spreading sexually (in addition to close, personal contact and large droplets)forever/some time, but it's only now that it hit a population where that could be detected more easily.It also seems possible that the genetic changes that people are just starting to sort out in could have tweaked this ability a bit.Do you have any thoughts on this?Kindest regards,Jason
2. 2022-05-23 14:10 Robert F. Garry open
   Lot's of things are possible. I guess. I think he's a good reporter...
3. 2022-05-23 14:11 Edward C. Holmes open
   Need to see the data before commenting
4. 2022-05-23 14:13 Robert F. Garry open
   It's reported that there are genital lesions. Don't see why it needs to be in semen or vagina fluids per se.
5. 2022-05-23 14:13 Edward C. Holmes
   Exactly
6. 2022-05-23 14:14 Andrew Rambaut open
   Hah - just got that email from Jason too. Agree with genital lesions.
7. 2022-05-23 14:14 Andrew Rambaut open
   I wonder if there is a tendency to get lesions at the site of infection first. This would facilitate sexual transmission.
8. 2022-05-23 14:15 Andrew Rambaut open
   But also mean it isn't specifically an STD - it will just act as one if that is the nature of the contact.

Full conversation →