May 7: Mpox is first identified in a non-endemic nation
After returning from travel in Nigeria, a patient is treated for mpox in the United Kingdom.
May 14: Mpox cases are recorded in Portugal, Italy, and Canada
Along with the United Kingdom, all four nations record 54 confirmed and suspected cases of mpox.
May 21: Additional nations across the globe report first cases
Countries begin exploring mass vaccination options. President Joe Biden rejects the idea of a quarantine to prevent the spread of monkeypox. UNAIDS warns nations against perpetrating stigma as they combat the spread of the virus.
May 28: As mpox vaccines are first issued, first mpox death is recorded
Nigeria reports the first death from the non-endemic mpox outbreak. The United Kingdom issues first vaccinations.