Connecticut Confirms First U.S. Case of More Virulent Clade I Mpox

Connecticut health officials confirmed the first U.S. case of clade I mpox Wednesday. The more virulent strain of the virus that causes monkeypox was detected in a person who recently traveled to Western Europe, where officials continue to monitor infectious disease activity.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health said the case does not pose a risk to the general public. Officials still encourage those at risk to receive the JYNNEOS vaccine.

The World Health Organization reported new hantavirus cases in Spain and France. The rare disease spreads through contact with infected rodents and can cause severe respiratory complications.

Mpox symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes and a characteristic rash, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"Mpox hasn't gone away, and we want people to be protected, especially as many in our community prepare for travel, festivals, and gatherings this summer," Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani said. "The vaccine is safe, effective and widely available. Completing the two-dose series is the best way to protect yourself and your partners."

Clade I mpox, historically identified in Central Africa, causes more severe illness and higher mortality rates than clade II, with cases often involving widespread rashes and complications. Clade II, mainly from West Africa, drove the 2022 global outbreak and led to milder symptoms, lower hospitalization and death rates.