New York City, USA – The number of Mpox cases, previously known as monkeypox, has surged in the United States, nearly doubling compared to the same period last year, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals. Although the significant outbreak experienced in 2022, with over 32,000 national cases, has largely subsided, experts emphasize that certain high-risk groups still need to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
Experts suggest that the majority of reported cases involve individuals who are either unvaccinated or under-vaccinated, indicating those who either have not received any vaccine doses or only received one dose. To combat the increase in cases, current guidance focuses on directing vaccination efforts towards high-risk groups and individuals with potential exposure to Mpox, underscoring the importance of preventive measures in the public health response.
The Jynneos vaccine, which requires two doses, is recommended for individuals who have been in contact with someone with Mpox, as well as those who have had a sexual partner in the past two weeks who was infected. Furthermore, individuals who identify as gay, bisexual, or men who have sex with other men and have had multiple sexual partners or been diagnosed with more than one sexually transmitted disease in the past six months are eligible for the vaccine. Additionally, those with immune-compromising conditions, such as HIV, are also encouraged to receive the vaccine.
The vaccine primarily works to protect against severe illness, although it may not guarantee complete immunity from infection. Experts advise that individuals receive the two doses of the vaccine, 28 days apart, to maximize protection. Those who have only received one dose should get their second dose to ensure full vaccination status.
As research on long-term vaccine efficacy continues, preliminary data presented at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases conference suggests that antibodies from vaccination may decline after one year. However, current supply of the vaccine remains stable, with efforts to help individuals catch up on their vaccinations ongoing.
Public health authorities are closely monitoring the situation, especially as a more lethal strain of the Mpox virus is circulating in the Democratic Republic of Congo. While there have been no reported cases of this strain in the U.S. as of now, vigilance and preventive measures are still seen as crucial in combating the virus’s spread.
In addition to vaccination, experts recommend other preventive measures such as regular communication with partners about health status, avoiding physical contact with individuals who may have been exposed, and seeking medical care if lesions are present. An antiviral drug is available to treat more severe Mpox cases, particularly for individuals at high risk of severe illness.
The increase in Mpox cases serves as a stark reminder of the virus’s ongoing presence, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and preventive measures in the fight against the disease.