Pasadena urges mpox precautions as cases rise for the viral disease

PASADENA — The Pasadena Public Health Department on Wednesday, April 29, urged residents to take precautions against mpox and consider vaccination as cases increase in California.

Health officials said vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness, particularly for individuals at higher risk of exposure.

Mpox, a viral disease, is currently circulating in two strains, known as clade I and clade II. Clade I cases are typically linked to international travel, while clade II has been spreading at low levels in California since 2022, primarily through close physical contact.

A recent clade I case was confirmed in San Francisco involving an unvaccinated individual with travel-related exposure, while statewide data show a rise in clade II infections, officials said.

“With summer travel and large events approaching, now is the ideal time to protect yourself if you or your sex partner may be at risk for mpox,” Pasadena Health Officer Dr. Parveen Kaur said in a statement.

Health officials said the virus spreads through close contact with infected individuals, including exposure to bodily fluids, skin lesions or contaminated materials. Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes and a rash.

Most cases are mild and resolve within two to four weeks, but individuals remain contagious until lesions have healed and new skin has formed, according to the department.

The Pasadena Public Health Department and the California Department of Public Health are recommending that eligible individuals receive two doses of the Jynneos vaccine, which officials said is effective in preventing infection and reducing the severity of illness.

Residents are also advised to avoid close contact with people who have symptoms, practice good hygiene and seek medical care if symptoms develop.

Officials said the overall risk to the general public remains low, but those in higher-risk groups are encouraged to take preventive measures and consult health care providers about vaccination options.