The mpox virus has made its first appearance in New York City, with health officials advising high-risk individuals to consider getting vaccinated.
The case of “mpox clade I” is linked to travel, as the infected person recently returned from an international trip, according to the city Department of Health.
The Health Commissioner, Dr. Alister Martin, stated, “There is no known local transmission of mpox clade I in New York City and the risk remains low for New Yorkers.”
He added, “The NYC Health Department recommends that New Yorkers who are at risk for mpox receive and complete the two-dose vaccine series that works to prevent mpox.”
There are two types of the mpox virus, clade I and clade II, with the former being more transmissible and causing more severe illness, as per the state Health Department.
While most mpox infections in the US have affected gay, bisexual, or other men who have sex with men, officials warn that anyone can contract the virus.
Formerly known as monkeypox, the virus can be transmitted through close contact, respiratory droplets, saliva, or mucus from an infected person.
