The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) has reported two new cases of mpox in the state. One case involved exposure outside the state, while the other appears to have been acquired locally, with no links to previous cases.
These new diagnoses bring the total number of mpox cases in Hawai‘i for 2024 to seven and 53 since June 3, 2022. The DOH advises those at higher risk of infection to consider receiving two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine. This vaccination will be available at the Honolulu Pride Festival on October 19 at Waikīkī Shell.
Healthcare providers across counties continue vaccinating high-risk individuals, and retail pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens now offer JYNNEOS vaccinations. More information on vaccine providers can be found online.
While most residents face a low risk of infection, mpox spreads primarily through close contact with body fluids or lesion material from an infected person. It may also spread via large respiratory droplets requiring prolonged contact.
Current clade II mpox cases are mainly spreading among social networks involving gay, bisexual men, and others who have sex with men. However, anyone with close contact with an infected individual is at risk regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Individuals experiencing symptoms such as flu-like symptoms or unexplained rashes should seek medical attention immediately. Testing and treatment are accessible even for those without a healthcare provider through facilities like the STI/HIV Clinic at Diamond Head Health Center.
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a public health emergency concerning clade I mpox in parts of Africa on August 14. Although this strain hasn't been detected in Hawai‘i or the U.S., travelers are advised to check CDC recommendations regarding vaccination and travel health notices.
The JYNNEOS vaccine offers protection against both clade II and potentially clade I mpox strains. Vaccination is recommended for certain groups including men who have sex with men having multiple partners, people exposed to someone with known or suspected infection, and travelers engaging in specific activities in regions affected by clade I outbreaks.
Vaccinations can be scheduled online through Longs Drug (CVS) Pharmacies and Walgreens Pharmacies websites. Residents across various islands can contact local health centers for more information about getting vaccinated.
Further details about vaccines and updates are available on health.hawaii.gov/mpox.