The New York State Department of Health is advising residents to stay alert regarding mpox following the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of a global health emergency due to an outbreak in central Africa. The mpox variant known as clade I has been rapidly spreading in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and is now reported in several neighboring countries, although no cases of this variant have been identified in the U.S. at this time.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald emphasized the importance of vaccination, urging those at risk to receive both doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine. He noted the vital role of healthcare providers in monitoring travel history for patients who may have been exposed. Although mpox cases in New York remain limited and no clade I cases have emerged, the state is encouraging protective measures.
In conjunction with the WHO’s announcement, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released a nationwide health alert that outlines recommendations for screening, diagnosing, and managing cases related to mpox clade I.
The state previously experienced an outbreak of the less virulent mpox variant clade II in 2022. Unlike clade II, clade I has shown higher rates of transmissibility and severity, sparking concern over potential cases entering the U.S. due to international travel from affected regions.
To prevent mpox transmission, the New York State Department of Health is actively promoting vaccination efforts, particularly targeting communities most affected by the disease. The two-dose JYNNEOS vaccine effectively protects against both clade I and clade II variants. Currently, the vaccine is widely available, and individuals who are fully vaccinated are not required to receive booster doses at this time.
Healthcare professionals are advised to stay vigilant for symptoms such as fever and skin rashes, particularly for patients who have traveled to affected nations. They should also encourage vaccination for unprotected individuals. Travelers to regions experiencing outbreaks should delay their trips until the situation improves.
Past occurrences suggest that many clade II infections in the U.S. were transmitted through sexual contact, particularly affecting men who have sex with men. However, the risk is present for all unvaccinated individuals. Transmission can also occur through contact with skin lesions or contaminated items such as clothing and bedding associated with infected individuals.
For further information regarding mpox, including prevention strategies and vaccination resources, residents can access various health resources provided by the state.