Monkeypox is a zoonotic infectious disease of viral origin, caused by a virus of the same family as the virus that causes smallpox, a disease officially declared eradicated in 1980 by vaccination. The cessation of this immunization, together with the speed and frequency of international travel, in addition to the commercialization of possible reservoirs, have been decisive for the increase in cases in recent decades. Changes in transmission dynamics and clinical characterization could be associated with genotypic changes of the virus. The di-agnostic methods, specific viral treatments and vaccines under consideration are not very accessible to the vast majority of countries. Learning from other epidemics and acting pro-actively and equitably, is key to preventing the development of new pandemics.