Safety Report: Warning due to Potential increase Mpox Cases in the US, USA

United States

An outbreak of mpox (formerly monkeypox) has been reported in the Chicago area, prompting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to issue a warning. From April 17 to May 5, 2023, a total of 12 confirmed and one probable cases of mpox were reported to the Chicago Department of Public Health. Nine (69%) of 13 cases were among men who had received 2 JYNNEOS vaccine doses. None of the patients have been hospitalized. The median age of those infected was 34 years (range 24–46 years). 4 of the men had recently traveled to New York City, New Orleans, and Mexico.

According to the CDC, while vaccine-induced immunity is not complete, vaccination continues to be one of the most important prevention measures against the spread of the disease. The CDC is also warning of a potential resurgence of the virus this summer as people gather for festivals and other events.

As of May 10, a total of 30,395 cases have been reported in the United States. This outbreak had a peak of about 460 cases per day in August 2022, and gradually declined, likely because of a combination of temporary changes in sexual behavior, vaccination, and infection-induced immunity. However, CDC continues to receive reports of new cases and clusters in the United States and internationally.

Spring and summer seasons in 2023 could lead to a resurgence of Mpox as people gather for festivals and other events. The purpose of the Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Update is to inform clinicians and public health agencies about the potential for new clusters or outbreaks of Mpox cases and to provide resources on clinical evaluation, treatment, vaccination, and testing.

In case you experienced Mpox symptoms, report it now. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.

Source: emergency.cdc.gov/han/2023/han00490.asp