DOH REPORTS ADDITIONAL MPOX CASES
October 11, 2024
Hawaii's Department of Health reports two new mpox cases, bringing the total to 53 since June 2022, with seven in 2024. One case suggests local transmission. The JYNNEOS vaccine is available for high-risk individuals, including at the upcoming Honolulu Pride Festival. Mpox primarily spreads through close contact, with gay and bisexual men at higher risk. Symptoms include flu-like conditions and unexplained rashes. Hawaii is monitoring for the more severe clade I mpox strain, currently affecting central Africa. The JYNNEOS vaccine is expected to protect against both clade II and clade I mpox.
The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) has reported two additional mpox cases, bringing the total to 53 since June 3, 2022, with seven cases in 2024 alone. One of the new cases suggests local transmission, as no out-of-state exposure or link to prior cases was identified.
In response to the ongoing threat, health officials are emphasizing vaccination for high-risk individuals. The JYNNEOS vaccine, which requires two doses, is being offered at various locations, including the upcoming Honolulu Pride Festival on October 19. Healthcare providers across counties and retail pharmacy chains like CVS and Walgreens are now providing vaccinations.
Mpox transmission primarily occurs through close, intimate contact with body fluids, lesion material, or contaminated items. While the risk remains low for most Hawaii residents, the current clade II mpox cases are primarily spreading among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. However, anyone in close contact with an infected person is at risk, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Symptoms of mpox include flu-like conditions, swollen lymph nodes, and unexplained rashes or sores. Individuals experiencing these symptoms are urged to contact their healthcare provider immediately for testing and treatment.
The DOH is also monitoring for the more severe clade I mpox strain, recently declared a public health emergency of international concern by the WHO. While this strain hasn't been detected in the U.S. or Hawaii, health officials remain vigilant.
Preventive measures include:
1. Asking new partners about their health
2. Avoiding close contact when feeling sick or having unexplained rashes
3. Not sharing personal items with people outside one's household
4. Minimizing physical contact in high-risk settings
Hawaii residents traveling internationally are encouraged to review updated CDC mpox vaccination recommendations and travel health notices. The JYNNEOS vaccine is expected to provide protection against both clade II and clade I mpox strains.