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The California Department of Public Health confirmed Wednesday that a San Diego County resident has Clade I mpox. County health officials say the patient likely contracted the virus while traveling internationally to an area where Clade I mpox is circulating.
The County is monitoring all identified contacts, and no one has reported symptoms.
- Risk to the general public remains very low.
- If you develop mpox-like symptoms—such as rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes—especially after travel or potential exposure, contact your healthcare provider.
- The two dose JYNNEOS vaccine provides the strongest protection against both Clade I and II mpox. It is recommended for people at higher risk, those with potential exposure, and travelers who anticipate close or intimate contact while abroad. The JYNNEOS vaccine is available through healthcare providers and County Sexual Health Clinics.
“It is really important for anyone at risk of contracting mpox complete both doses of the vaccine,” County <a href="https://healthylife7.com/white-house-rebukes-cbs-interview-after-host-battles-nih-director-over-loss-of-trust-in-public-health/" title="White House rebukes CBS interview after host battles NIH director over loss of trust in public health“>Public Health Officer Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan said. “Completing the series offers the best protection against severe illness, including painful blisters that take a month to heal, and in some cases lead to hospitalization.”
Mpox spreads through close physical contact or sharing personal items with someone who is infected. Symptoms can include a painful rash, sores and sometimes flu-like illness. Avoiding contact with people who have rashes or scabs, not sharing personal items and frequent handwashing help reduce risk.
Clade I mpox, linked to Central Africa, has become more common in Eastern Africa and other parts of the world in recent years. Most Clade I cases outside of Africa are associated with travel, though some areas have reported local spread. Clade I may be more severe than Clade II, which has been present in San Diego County since 2022.
San Diego County has reported 27 cases this year, mostly among people who were not fully vaccinated. All cases involve men between 17 and 53-years-old.
For mpox updates, text COSD MPOX to 98256. More information is available on the County’s mpox webpage.
