The city Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has reported a significant increase in Mpox cases in New York City. Since January 1st, a total of 149 individuals have tested positive for the virus, with 47 confirmed cases occurring between March 10th and April 6th.
From October through April 15th, there were a total of 256 cases reported, with 188 among individuals who were either not vaccinated against Mpox or had only received one dose of the vaccine. According to city health officials, the average number of cases per month since October has been 36.
In January, the city experienced its peak with 51 confirmed cases. However, throughout most of 2023, case numbers were relatively low, ranging from two to 20 cases per month between January and September. Recently, there has been a notable increase in cases among men who have sex with men.
Mpox is caused by a virus similar to the one that causes smallpox. It mainly spreads through intimate contact among social networks of gay men, men who have sex with men, and transgender people. The health department emphasized the importance of vaccination as a safe method to prevent infection and reduce symptoms associated with Mpox. Individuals who may have been exposed or are at risk of exposure are encouraged to get vaccinated against Mpox.
According to city health officials, reported case numbers were relatively low throughout most of 2023 due to public awareness campaigns aimed at preventing the spread of the disease through education and outreach efforts. However, there has been an increase in cases since October due to travel-related exposures.
The city’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is working closely with other agencies and organizations to monitor the situation closely and provide resources for those affected by Mpox. The department encourages everyone who may have been exposed or is at risk of exposure to get vaccinated against Mpox as soon as possible.
In conclusion, recent data shows that there has been a significant increase in Mpox cases in New York City since January
