JOURNAL ARTICLE

These small African antelopes may help mpox spread: Researchers find evidence that duikers, hunted and eaten across sub-Saharan Africa, can harbor the deadly virus.

Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2026. P. N.PAG 1 of 3
Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3
Authored By: Kupferschmidt, Kai 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on recent research identifying duikers, small antelopes widely hunted and consumed in sub-Saharan Africa, as potential hosts of the monkeypox virus (MPXV), which causes the disease mpox. Scientists found evidence of MPXV infection in duikers from both Central and West Africa, suggesting these animals may contribute to the virus’s complex ecology and spillover into humans. The study also links a 2017 mpox outbreak in chimpanzees to consumption of infected duikers, highlighting the role of wildlife interactions in transmission. While the findings do not confirm duikers as the primary reservoir, they emphasize the need for targeted public health strategies that consider local dietary practices and community involvement. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

Source:Sciencemag.org. 2026/03, pN.PAG
Document Type:Article
Subject Area:Social Sciences and Humanities
Publication Date:2026
Accession Number:192668793
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