Health Officials Alerted as Severe Mpox Strain Emerges in California
A more virulent strain of mpox, known as Clade 1, has been detected in three residents of California, raising alarm among health officials. This marks the first instance of this severe strain spreading within the United States, according to reports released on October 6, 2023. The patients, located in Long Beach and Los Angeles, had not traveled internationally, indicating that this strain may be circulating in the local community.
Clade 1 has been prevalent in central and eastern Africa, leading to tens of thousands of infections and hundreds of fatalities. In contrast, the strain that circulated in the U.S. in 2022, known as Clade 2, caused about 30,000 cases but resulted in less severe illness. Although Clade 2 is still present in the U.S. at lower levels, officials have noted an uptick in infections in several cities since the summer.
As of now, health authorities in Los Angeles have reported a total of 118 cases of mpox this year, a significant increase from the previous year, which saw no cases reported. The three patients infected with Clade 1 were hospitalized but are now recovering at home under isolation. Authorities have yet to establish a connection between these cases, which complicates the response efforts.
Dr. Kelly Johnson, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California, San Francisco, conveyed her concerns regarding potential community spread. While she stated that the risk of infection remains low for most individuals, she emphasized the need for caution, particularly among those with weakened immune systems and men who have sex with men.
“My concern is that person-to-person, community spread could be ongoing,” Dr. Johnson noted.
Mpox can be transmitted through intimate contact, household interactions, or by sharing personal items. Initial symptoms typically mirror those of the flu, followed by the development of a rash and painful lesions. The emergence of Clade 1 in California highlights the importance of continued surveillance and public health measures to prevent further spread of this virus. As the situation evolves, health officials are urging the community to remain vigilant and informed.
