Third mpox diagnosis in U.S. found in N.H. by health departments
February 8, 2025
New Hampshire has confirmed its first case of clade I mpox in a Merrimack County resident who recently traveled to Eastern Africa, where outbreaks of this more severe strain are ongoing. The individual is recovering in self-isolation, and health officials assure there is no public risk or evidence of local transmission. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is conducting contact tracing and offering preventive vaccination to those exposed. With mpox continuing to spread in Africa, health officials stress the importance of awareness, vaccination, and early detection, particularly for travelers to affected regions.
New Hampshire’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has reported the state’s first confirmed case of clade I mpox in a resident from Merrimack County, marking the third U.S. diagnosis of this strain. The individual recently traveled to Eastern Africa, where outbreaks of clade I are ongoing, and is currently self-isolating while recovering at home.
Unlike clade II mpox, which caused the 2022 outbreak in the United States, clade I is associated with a higher severity and has been spreading in Central and Eastern Africa. However, officials emphasize that there is no current risk to the public, as there is no evidence of person-to-person transmission in New Hampshire or nationwide.
The DHHS has launched a disease investigation to identify potential close contacts, providing them with preventive vaccination and monitoring support. Mpox spreads primarily through direct physical contact with symptomatic individuals or contaminated materials. It does not spread through the air.
Common symptoms include a painful or itchy rash, fever, chills, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and exhaustion. The contagious period begins with symptom onset and lasts until the rash fully heals.
Health officials encourage those traveling to Central or Eastern Africa or individuals at high risk to consult with healthcare providers about receiving the JYNNEOS vaccine. With continued mpox outbreaks worldwide, proactive vaccination and awareness remain critical in preventing further spread.