Mecklenburg County Public Health Reports Recent Increase in Mpox Cases

Mecklenburg County Public Health has seen a recent increase in mpox cases, which coincides with increases in cases in other U.S. cities and a newer strain of the virus, Clade I, with more severe symptoms that have been circulating in parts of Africa and Europe. After seeing a large decrease in cases after the initial outbreak, Public Health is reporting three cases in October and seven cases so far in November.  

“While the overall risk from mpox in our community is very low, we encourage those who are at higher risk to take steps to protect their health,” said Dr. Raynard Washington, Public Health director. “The vaccine remains the best tool we have to prevent mpox and serious complications from the virus.”

Mpox is a viral infection spread primarily through close, skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. Mpox vaccinations are available at Mecklenburg County Public Health clinic locations. People can call 704-336-6500 to make an appointment or walk in any time during business hours.

Vaccination can protect against mpox infection from both Clades I and II and can reduce severity of illness if infection does occur.

The following are common symptoms for mpox:

• Fever and/or chills
• Headache and/or body aches
• Swollen lymph nodes (tender lumps near the neck, jaw, armpits, and groin)
• Exhaustion
• A skin rash on any part of the body, including the genitals, with lesions (sores)
• Rash can be as small as one or two bumps or cover the entire body
• Lesions can look like bumps, warts, pimples, sores, or scabs