On October 30, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued a health alert to healthcare providers in the state, cautioning them to stay vigilant in diagnosing and treating cases of mpox (previously known as monkeypox) throughout California.
Mpox is a virus that primarily spreads through close skin to skin contact or sexual contact with individuals who already have Mpox. It causes flu-like symptoms and a rash on the face, body, limbs, and genitals. Severe cases need hospitalization and can even cause death. In California, the incidence of this disease has increased from seven cases a week in July and August to 17 cases in October.
Though the virus can infect anyone, individuals with HIV, gay, bisexual, and transgender men, and individuals who have had a diagnosis of sexually transmitted diseases over the past six months are particularly at risk.
The CDPH recommends vaccination as the most effective preventative strategy, and you can book your vaccination here. Other preventive measures include avoiding close contact with infected individuals, not sharing personal items with them and maintaining personal hygiene such as washing hands regularly with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer.
More resources can be found here.