Health officials in California have reported new cases of mpox, a disease known for causing a serious skin rash, in both Southern California and Stanislaus County. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced that three unrelated cases of clade I mpox were detected in Long Beach and Los Angeles County. None of the individuals had traveled internationally, suggesting the virus was transmitted locally. All three required hospitalization.
Historically, clade I mpox cases in the United States have been associated with travel to countries experiencing outbreaks. This form of the virus is considered more severe and can be fatal, particularly for people with weakened immune systems.
Stanislaus County public health authorities confirmed a case of clade II mpox locally. Kamlesh Kaur, spokesperson for the county Health Services Agency, stated by email, “We are currently gathering more information on potential exposure and contacts. This is our first confirmed case since January 2024.”
Symptoms of mpox include flu-like illness and a rash that progresses to sores, blisters, and scabs. The rash can last between two to four weeks. Clade I mpox has a higher mortality rate—upward of 10%—while clade II has a mortality rate between 1% and 4%, according to data from the Johns Hopkins school of public health.
The virus spreads primarily through close contact with infected individuals. The CDPH noted that current cases in California are mostly affecting “communities of gay and bisexual men, other men who have sex with men, as well as their social networks.”
Dr. Rita Nguyen, Assistant State Public Health Officer, said: “As we continue to monitor the situation, it is crucial for Californians to stay informed and take preventive measures, especially persons who are more likely to be exposed to mpox.”
Transmission can occur through physical contact such as massages or sex or through skin-to-skin contact with the rash or bodily fluids from sores. The risk also applies to those sharing living spaces or personal items with someone infected. However, CDPH emphasized that casual contact in public places like stores or on airplanes is unlikely to result in transmission.
The state recommends prevention strategies including vaccination for those at increased risk—such as gay and bisexual men, people with HIV or those taking PrEP or doxy PEP—and anyone planning sexual contact while traveling to areas where clade I mpox is present. Two doses are recommended for full protection; vaccination soon after exposure may also be effective.
Healthcare providers are advised by CDPH to assess patients’ risk for mpox exposure at all sexual health visits and test anyone presenting symptoms.
For vaccination information in Stanislaus County, residents are directed to the Public Health Immunization Clinic at 1524 McHenry Ave., Modesto. The clinic operates Monday, Wednesday, and Friday; appointments can be made by calling 209-558-7700.
