Mpox Cases on the Rise in Multiple States

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has reported a concerning increase in mpox cases, with six new cases reported in the past week. Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is spread mainly through close contact with bodily fluids, shared bedding or clothing or respiratory droplets through kissing, coughing and sneezing. Health officials are encouraging people at higher risk of contracting mpox to get two doses of the readily available vaccine ahead of Pride month. Last year’s outbreak caused concern among the local LGBTQ+ community. Enhanced surveillance, contact tracing and outbreak investigations are underway to identify potential sources of the infection and prevent further transmission.