Missouri reports first clade I mpox cases in state | News

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, along with local public health agencies, have identified two cases of Missouri residents with clade I mpox. These cases are the first known strands of the virus within the state.

Health officials say that the cases are unrelated, but that both are tied to recent international travel to regions where mpox is more common. These are the 13th and 14th cases of clade I mpox reported nationally, according to the release.

Specialist say that clade I mpox differs from the clade II strain responsible for the 2022 outbreak. According to health officials, clade I is associated with more severe illness and a higher risk of death, particularly among immunocompromised individuals.

“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.”

Both strains of the virus spread primarily through direct physical contact with an infected person or through contact with contaminated items, according to the release.

Symptoms include an infectious rash that can look like pimples or blisters and 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 are recommending the JYNNEOS vaccine to maximize protection, according to the release.