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New Mpox Cases in California Signal Potential Resurgence

A more serious type of mpox may be spreading in california. Three people in the state have been hospitalized with the virus, and none had recently traveled outside the country. California public health officials agree this suggests local person-to-person transmission. While there was a important mpox outbreak in 2022, it involved a different, less severe strain of the virus.

Types of Mpox

Mpox is a disease caused by the mpox virus, which is related to the smallpox virus.Researchers have identified two main clades, or types, of the mpox virus: Clade I and Clade II. These clades differ genetically and in their clinical presentation – meaning how the disease manifests in patients.

Clade I

Clade I, historically found primarily in central Africa, has a lower fatality rate, typically around 1%.Transmission has historically been linked to close contact with infected animals, especially rodents and primates. The CDC provides detailed information on the characteristics of each clade.

Clade II

Clade II,which caused the 2022 global outbreak,has two sub-clades: IIa and IIb. The 2022 outbreak was largely driven by the IIb sub-clade. This clade is associated with more rapid transmission between humans, particularly through close, intimate contact. While the overall fatality rate for Clade II is also relatively low, it was responsible for a much larger number of cases globally. The current cases in California are linked to Clade IIb.

Why the Current Cases are Concerning

The recent cases in California are raising concerns because they involve Clade IIb, the same strain responsible for the 2022 outbreak, but with a potentially more severe presentation. Hospitalizations suggest a higher risk of complications compared to the cases seen during the earlier outbreak. The fact that these individuals hadn’t traveled recently indicates the virus is actively circulating within the state.

Symptoms of Mpox

Mpox symptoms typically begin with a fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. Within one to three days after the fever starts, a rash develops, often resembling pimples or blisters. The rash can appear on any part of the body, including the face, hands, feet, and genitals. The World Health Organization (WHO) offers a extensive overview of mpox symptoms.

Prevention and Vaccination

Vaccination is a key tool in preventing mpox. The JYNNEOS vaccine is approved for prevention of mpox in individuals aged 18 years and older. The CDC provides guidance on mpox vaccination, including who is eligible and where to find vaccination sites.

Other preventative measures include:

• Avoiding close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like mpox.
• avoiding contact with materials (such as clothing, bedding, or towels) that have been in contact with someone who has mpox.
• Practicing good hygiene,such as washing hands frequently with soap and water.

Key takeaways

• A more serious strain of mpox (Clade IIb) is circulating in California.
• Three individuals have been hospitalized, suggesting a potentially higher risk of severe illness.
• Local transmission is confirmed, meaning the virus is spreading within the state.