The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) has reported an additional case of mpox in a nonresident diagnosed in Honolulu County. This marks the fifth case diagnosed in Hawai‘i in 2024, bringing the total number of cases reported to the DOH since June 3, 2022, to 51. Individuals at higher risk of mpox infection are advised to consider vaccination with two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine.
Laboratory testing has identified this latest case as mpox clade II, which is responsible for the ongoing global outbreak that began in 2022.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently increased monitoring of mpox clade I activity in Africa, including an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Although mpox clade I has not been detected in the United States or Hawaiʻi during the current outbreak, it can cause more severe illness and deaths. Some outbreaks have resulted in fatalities for up to 10% of those infected, though recent outbreaks have had lower death rates.
While the risk to the general public in the U.S. from the DRC's mpox clade I outbreak remains very low, vaccination with JYNNEOS is recommended for those at increased risk to protect against both mpox clades I and II.
The JYNNEOS vaccine is available statewide. Those at higher risk should complete the two-dose series by summer to stay protected during Pride events in Fall 2024. The series takes a minimum of four weeks to complete.
The DOH and healthcare providers across counties continue vaccinating high-risk individuals. Information on providers offering vaccines can be found at https://health.hawaii.gov/mpox or by contacting local providers directly.
On April 1, 2024, Bavarian Nordic commercially launched its JYNNEOS vaccine and opened ordering through commercial wholesalers. Consequently, it may also be accessible at other clinics and pharmacies; calling ahead is recommended to confirm availability.
Mpox transmission primarily occurs through close contact with body fluids, lesion material, or items used by someone with mpox. It may also spread via large respiratory droplets requiring prolonged contact due to their limited travel distance.
Current cases nationally and within Hawai‘i predominantly spread among social networks of gay, bisexual men, and other men who have sex with men. However, anyone engaging in close contact with an infected person is at risk regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Individuals are encouraged to inquire about new partners' health status regarding recent rashes or sores. If symptoms appear—such as flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, or unexplained rashes—contacting a healthcare provider immediately is advised. Avoid sharing personal items like bedding or toothbrushes outside one's household and minimize physical contact when attending events involving direct skin-to-skin interaction.
Further information and updates are available at health.hawaii.gov/mpox.