Breaking News: First Locally Acquired Cases of More Severe Mpox Strain Reported in California
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has confirmed the first locally acquired cases of a more severe form of mpox, known as clade I, in California. According to health officials, an adult is recovering at home after being hospitalized for a confirmed case of clade I mpox with no recent travel to areas where the virus is typically found, primarily in parts of Africa. This is the second reported case of clade I mpox in Los Angeles County, following a similar report by the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services earlier this week.
Understanding the Difference Between Clade I and Clade II Mpox
Clade I mpox is considered more severe than clade II, which was the cause of the 2022 global outbreak. According to the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, fatality rates for clade II range from less than 1% to 4%, while rates for clade I range from 1% to 10%. Additionally, clade I is being reported in more children in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, whereas clade II is not generally seen in children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported at least six other cases of clade I mpox in the U.S., including in New York, but these cases were identified in people who had recently traveled to affected areas in central and eastern Africa.
Transmission and Prevention
Health officials emphasize that mpox is spread largely through close, intimate contact with symptomatic people, mainly during sexual activity. The virus can also be spread through close person contact, such as massage or cuddling, and within households or by sharing personal items. While the risk to the general public remains low, certain groups, including gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, are advised to take preventative measures. Early detection, testing, and vaccination are vital to controlling the spread of this virus, and getting both doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine provides the best protection against mpox.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Both clade I and clade II may present with flu-like symptoms followed by a rash, and symptoms usually start within 21 days of exposure. However, rashes for clade I tend to cover more of the body, including the face and torso, while rashes from clade II do not always cover the body. The CDC and local health departments are working to raise awareness and promote prevention and vaccination efforts to control the spread of mpox.
For more information on mpox and the latest updates, visit the CDC website or consult with a healthcare professional. To stay informed about the latest developments, follow reputable news sources and official health department reports. Here
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