A Mpox outbreak in Chicago shows signs of a potential summertime return that could spread to the rest of the state, according to health officials. White data show spread of the viral disease has been somewhat limited, health officials are urging vaccinations.
In May, the Centers for Disease Control released an alert saying that from April 17 to May 5, there were 12 confirmed and one probable case of Mpox reported to the Chicago Department of Public Health. The city reports 46 new cases since April 1.
Nine of the 13 earlier cases were among men who had already received two doses of the Mpox vaccine, JYNNEOS.
While the vaccine is not 100% effective, Jeffery Erdman, associate executive director of the Illinois Public Health Association, said that getting vaccinated is the best preventative measure against Mpox.
“We’re mostly seeing the current Mpox outbreak in gay and bisexual men, but anyone is susceptible to Mpox,” Erdman said. “Mpox spreads through close physical contact.”
The vaccine is two doses and should be received 28 days apart.
Those who receive vaccinations will likely have less severe symptoms if they contract the virus, Erdman said.
Trends show a resurgence is possible given the warm weather and more events occurring over summer.
“It’s important to really talk about Mpox now because it’s Pride season throughout the country so there are a lot of Pride festivals and Pride parades,” Erdman said. “Mpox can really be spread to anyone, it just happens to be in the gay and bisexual community right now because that’s the community that the virus jumped into in the current outbreak.”
Besides vaccinations, Erdman encouraged everyone to be aware of Mpox symptoms.
“The symptoms are lesions, or an unexplained rash, but it also has flu-like symptoms such as aches, pains, fever, respiratory symptoms,” Erdman said. “The best way to protect yourself is to avoid close contact, especially intimate contact, with individuals who might have Mpox.”
Those with Mpox should stay inside if possible, avoid close contact with others, and cover skin with lesions or rashes, Erdman said.
Mpox vaccines are available at the McLean County Health Department (MCHD). To find other vaccine sites, visit the CDC website.
McLean County had two confirmed and one possible Mpox case last year, but none so far in 2023.
