San Mateo County Health has reported a new mpox case this month, marking a resurgence in the area and other parts of the country.
As summer season and Pride celebrations approach in the Bay Area, health officials are warning of a resurgence in the mpox virus (formerly monkeypox) after more than six months without a single case, according to a San Mateo County news release.
San Mateo County Health has reported a new mpox case this month, marking a resurgence in the area and other parts of the country.
Dr. Vivian Levy, San Mateo County Health’s STD control officer, emphasized the importance of vaccination.
“Cases of mpox in San Mateo County remain low, but we want to make sure that everyone in our communities is protected,” she said. “Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent the infection and make sure that everyone can enjoy a happy and healthy Pride season.”
The mpox virus, unlike COVID-19, which is airborne, poses a low risk to the general public as it spreads primarily through prolonged skin-to-skin contact and bodily fluids from sexual encounters or close, sustained physical contact. The 2022 outbreak in the U.S. was propagated almost exclusively through sexual contact.
Despite the low public risk, County Health strongly urges vaccinations for those populations at most risk. The groups most likely impacted include individuals living with HIV, those taking or eligible for HIV PrEP, and all men, trans people, and non-binary individuals who engage in sexual activities with men, trans people, or non-binary individuals. More information about mpox prevention can be found through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Symptoms of mpox often include a rash on hands, feet, chest, face, mouth or near the genitals, as well as fever, chills, and muscle aches. To protect against the virus, individuals should seek the Jynneos orthopox vaccine, administered in two doses at least 28 days apart.
Local resources for mpox vaccination are available through the California Department of Public Health’s Online Vaccination Portal, San Mateo County Health’s Edison STD Clinic, San Mateo County Pride Celebration walk-up clinic, and various clinics in Alameda, Contra Costa, and San Francisco counties.
Discovered on: 2023-05-17 17:56:27
Source: San Mateo County officials report new mpox case, urge at-risk groups to get…
