A new variant of mpox, which is linked to the monkeypox virus, has been identified in Southern California. On October 17, the California Department of Health Services (CDPH) announced that there are three confirmed instances of the clade I mpox infection.
The cases, which are unrelated, were detected in Long Beach and Los Angeles County. Although the overall public health risk is low, this marks the first case where the patient did not have any recent travel outside the country, suggesting community transmission may be occurring through close contact. Typically, mpox cases are imported from abroad.
All three infected individuals required hospitalization, though they are currently on the mend. The CDPH has recommended that at-risk individuals who may be exposed through their partners receive both doses of the mpox vaccine, as the disease predominantly affects the gay and bisexual male population.
Transmission routes for both clade I and clade II mpox include intimate physical contact, direct exposure to rashes or scabs, and sharing personal items with an infected person. Health experts also note that the virus may be transmitted from pregnant women to their infants. However, the CDPH advises that everyday interactions—like those on planes or in stores—are unlikely to spread mpox.
Dr. Rita Nguyen, a state assistant public health officer, stated that the CDPH is committed to monitoring the situation closely to minimize the spread of the virus. She urged Californians, especially those at higher risk, to remain informed and take safety measures. She highlighted that cases of clade I mpox can be severe, especially for individuals with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms of mpox begin similarly to flu symptoms, progressing to a rash. It’s essential for anyone who thinks they may have been exposed to get vaccinated promptly to reduce the risk of developing symptoms and to avoid close contact for 21 days. Anyone noticing such symptoms should seek medical attention and get tested. Individuals confirmed to have mpox should isolate at home until their rash has healed.
