In 2022, a global outbreak of monkeypox (mpox) emerged, primarily affecting men who have sex with men, raising significant concerns about stigma and health equity. This outbreak highlighted the vulnerabilities of marginalized communities in the face of infectious diseases and underscored the importance of inclusive public health responses. The response to the outbreak involved international cooperation and efforts to ensure equitable access to vaccines and treatments. The monkeypox outbreak serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in global health and the need for comprehensive strategies to address health disparities.

The global outbreak of monkeypox in 2022 reignited discussions on disease stigmatization and marginalized communities, influencing contemporary queer and activist literature. Poets began to draw parallels with the AIDS crisis, advocating for inclusive public health narratives and exploring the intersections of identity and health.