The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) has reported two new cases of mpox in the state. One case involved exposure outside Hawaiʻi, while the other was locally acquired with no links to previous cases. This brings the total number of mpox cases diagnosed in Hawaiʻi in 2024 to seven, and since June 3, 2022, to 53.
Health officials recommend that individuals at higher risk consider receiving two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine. The vaccine will be available at the Honolulu Pride Festival on October 19 at Waikīkī Shell. Vaccinations are also being provided by healthcare providers across counties and retail pharmacy chains such as CVS and Walgreens.
Mpox is primarily spread through close contact with body fluids or lesion material from an infected person. While most residents face a low risk, transmission is currently prevalent among social networks of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. The DOH advises avoiding sharing personal items like bedding or toothbrushes and suggests minimizing physical contact during events with potential skin-to-skin interactions.
Symptoms include flu-like signs, swollen lymph nodes, rashes, or sores. Those experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately. Testing and treatment options are available through healthcare providers or clinics like the STI/HIV Clinic at Diamond Head Health Center.
The World Health Organization declared a public health emergency for clade I mpox in central Africa on August 14. This strain has not been detected in Hawaiʻi or the U.S., but monitoring continues for any suspected cases.
For full protection against mpox, two doses of JYNNEOS are recommended four weeks apart. The vaccine is accessible statewide through various sites including pharmacies and clinics.
Further details can be found on the DOH website: health.hawaii.gov/mpox.
Media Contact: Kristen Wong