Surge in Mpox Cases Highlights Need for Vaccine Access
As concerns rise over the spread of a highly contagious form of mpox, there are increasing calls for at-risk groups to get vaccinated. The CDC recommends that those with certain risk factors access vaccine and immunization services to protect themselves against this more severe outbreak. Radiant Health Centers will step up efforts to stop the spread of the disease with an accessible mpox vaccine program for Orange County residents.
Contagious Form of Mpox Leads to Call for Greater Vaccine Coverage
In August 2024, the World Health Organization declared mpox a global public health emergency after an uptick in cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This declaration comes only two years after the last mpox outbreak that led to a massive global response and widespread vaccine rollout.
While the 2022 outbreak was significant, the Clade 2 strain was milder than many had anticipated, with a death rate of only 0.2%. Unfortunately, the latest version of the virus (called Clade 1) appears to be far more virulent and severe. CDC reports suggest Clade 1 has historically led to up to 10% of deaths from the infection, though lower figures of between 1–3.3% have been identified for this current strain. As with previous outbreaks, it is vital to stay informed about mpox in Orange County, and to get vaccinated if you are at risk.
Vaccines Can Stop the Spread of Mpox Among High-Risk Groups
Full protection against both types of mpox requires two doses of the vaccine, administered at least 28 days apart. Patients who previously received the first dose are advised to get the second dose as soon as possible after the four weeks have passed, though individuals that have recovered from mpox won’t need the vaccine.
Currently there are no mass vaccination programs planned to tackle the disease. Rather, vaccines are recommended for those who have had close contact with someone who has mpox, and for people belonging to high-risk groups. These at-risk groups include men who have sex with men and, in the last six months, have had a sexually transmitted infection or had sex with more than one person.
COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines Are as Vital as Ever
As we move into the fall and winter respiratory illness season, it’s also critical to stay up-to-date with COVID-19 and flu vaccines. These immunizations are crucial in protecting individuals and the Orange County community during the months when respiratory infections typically peak. People can receive these vaccinations, along with our HIV treatments, counseling and primary medical care services, at Radiant Health Centers’ Irvine medical clinic.
Get Access to Leading Vaccine Services in Orange County
Radiant Health Centers provides vaccines for mpox, COVID-19, influenza and other viral diseases. Contact us for help with immunizations, testing, primary care and other vital services. Call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.
Image Credit – PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock.com
