First Clade I Mpox Case Confirmed In San Diego County

SAN DIEGO, CA — San Diego County has confirmed its first case of Clade I mpox in a resident who likely contracted the virus while traveling internationally, health officials announced Monday.

The California Department of Public Health confirmed the case. County officials said they are monitoring the patient's identified contacts, and no one has reported symptoms.

The risk to the general public remains very low, according to the county.

Clade I mpox, which has been linked to Central Africa, has become more common in Eastern Africa and other parts of the world in recent years. Most Clade I cases reported outside Africa have been associated with international travel, although some areas have experienced local spread.

Clade I can be more severe than Clade II mpox, which has circulated in San Diego County since 2022.

Mpox can spread through close physical contact or by sharing personal items with someone who has the virus. Symptoms can include a painful rash, sores and sometimes flu-like illness.

County health officials recommend the two-dose JYNNEOS vaccine for people at higher risk, those with a potential exposure and travelers who anticipate close or intimate contact while abroad.

"It is really important for anyone at risk of contracting mpox complete both doses of the vaccine," County Public Health Officer Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan said in a statement. "Completing the series offers the best protection against severe illness, including painful blisters that take a month to heal, and in some cases lead to hospitalization."

San Diego County has reported 27 mpox cases this year, mostly among people who were not fully vaccinated. All of the cases involved men between 17 and 53 years old.

People who develop mpox-like symptoms, particularly after travel or a potential exposure, should contact their health care provider, officials said.