The number of cases of Mpox in New York City has been steadily rising since October 2023, with a peak of 51 cases in January. Prior to this, the city typically saw an average of 2 to 20 cases per month. However, since October, the average has increased to 36 cases per month. Most cases have been mild, with only 10 individuals requiring hospitalization. According to a health alert issued by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC Health) on May 3rd, healthcare providers were urged to continue offering vaccines to at-risk populations, particularly individuals with HIV or other immunocompromising conditions. The Jynneos vaccine has transitioned to the commercial market, but federally funded supplies will be available at no cost until early summer.
The health department also reminded providers to be mindful of the risk of the more severe clade 1 virus currently causing a severe outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). While this strain has not been found outside of Africa, providers were advised to watch for individuals with mpox symptoms who have traveled to or have connections with the affected region. Of the 256 cases reported since October, 73% of individuals were unvaccinated or had only received one dose and most were men who have sex with men between the ages of 25 and 44. It’s important for healthcare providers and individuals in general to take precautions against spreading this disease by practicing good hygiene and avoiding close contact with those who are infected.