The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, together with local public health agencies, has confirmed two cases of Missouri residents infected with clade I mpox. These mark the first known cases of this strain in the state.
Health officials say the cases are not connected, though both are linked to recent international travel to areas where mpox is more prevalent. According to the release, these cases are the 13th and 14th reported nationwide involving clade I mpox.
Specialists note that clade I mpox differs from the clade II strain responsible for the 2022 outbreak. Health officials state that clade I is associated with more severe illness and carries a higher risk of death, particularly for individuals with weakened immune systems.
“While risk to the general public remains low, mpox is still active,” George Turabelidze, a state epidemiologist, said in the news release. “We recommend those who are at risk for mpox infection to get vaccinated.”
According to the release, both strains of the virus primarily spread through direct physical contact with an infected person or contact with contaminated items.
Symptoms include an infectious rash that may resemble pimples or blisters and can feel painful or itchy. Other symptoms of mpox include fever, chills, headache, exhaustion, muscle aches, sore throat, or swollen lymph nodes, according to the release.
Health officials recommend the JYNNEOS vaccine to maximize protection, according to the release.