Department of Health confirms first case of Clade I mpox in Arizona but says public risk low - KTAR News 92.3 FM

What the report says

KTAR.com reported that the Arizona Department of Health Services confirmed the state’s first known case of Clade I mpox on Wednesday, while saying the risk to the broader public remains low. The case involves an Arizona resident who, according to the department, acquired the infection during international travel. Health officials said they have not found evidence that the case has led to local transmission.

The report said Arizona had recorded 34 mpox cases this year as of Tuesday across the two recognized types, Clade I and Clade II. Clade II has been circulating in Arizona and elsewhere in the United States since 2022, while ADHS said Clade I is more often associated with parts of Africa and is less frequently seen in the U.S. State and local public health officials are following up with people who may have been exposed.

Mpox spreads mainly through close contact with an infected person, including contact with rashes, sores, scabs, bodily fluids or contaminated items such as bedding and towels. ADHS said casual contact in places such as stores, offices or airplanes is unlikely to spread the virus. Symptoms can include a painful or itchy rash resembling pimples or blisters, along with fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, chills, fatigue or respiratory symptoms.

Health officials advised people who may be at risk to seek the two-dose JYNNEOS vaccine and to contact a health care provider or local health department after possible exposure. Those with symptoms or a positive test are advised to isolate and avoid close contact until lesions have healed and new skin has formed.