New Strain of Mpox Found in Southern California
A new type of mpox, a disease caused by the monkeypox virus, has been reported in Southern California. The California Department of Health (CDPH) confirmed three cases of clade I mpox on October 17. These cases were found in Long Beach and Los Angeles County.
While the risk to public health remains low, this is the first time that individuals infected did not have a history of recent international travel. This suggests that the virus may be spreading from person to person within the community, often through close contact. Typically, mpox cases have come from travelers returning from outside the U.S.
All three patients have required hospitalization, but they are now recovering. The CDPH advises residents who are at risk—especially those with partners who may be infected—to get both doses of the mpox vaccine. The virus often affects communities of gay and bisexual men.
According to health officials, mpox can spread in several ways, including through intimate contact, direct skin contact with rashes or bodily fluids, or sharing living spaces and personal items with someone infected. However, casual contact in places like airplanes or stores is unlikely to lead to transmission.
Dr. Rita Nguyen, an Assistant State Public Health Officer, emphasized the importance of staying informed and taking precautions, especially for those at higher risk. Severe cases of clade I mpox can occur, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. Vaccination is crucial for those who may be at risk.
Mpox symptoms often start out looking like the flu before developing into a rash. If people are exposed to mpox, they should seek vaccination quickly and avoid intimate contact for 21 days, according to health agencies. Symptoms can be tested for in a lab.
Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact their doctor right away for testing. It’s important for mpox-positive individuals to isolate at home until their rash has healed to prevent further spread of the virus.
