Hawaii Reports Two New Cases of Mpox, Bringing Statewide Total to 44
HONOLULU – The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) announced on Friday that two new cases of mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, have been reported on Oahu. This brings the total number of mpox cases reported statewide since June 3, 2022, to 44.
These two new cases mark the second and third mpox diagnoses in Hawaii this year. The first case was reported just last month, following a nearly one-year gap in mpox cases in the state.
Health officials have revealed that the National Wastewater Surveillance System detected intermittent presence of the mpox virus in wastewater samples from Oahu. This discovery prompted increased monitoring and response efforts to prevent further spread.
Out of the 44 cases, Oahu has reported a total of 30 cases, while Kauai, Hawaii island, and Maui have reported four cases each. Additionally, there have been four cases reported out-of-state.
The DOH has assured the public that contact tracing is being conducted for all reported mpox cases. They emphasize the importance of high-risk individuals considering vaccination with two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine, which is readily available across the state.
While the risk of mpox remains low for most Hawaii residents, DOH highlights that current cases, both nationally and in the state, are primarily spreading among social networks of gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men.
However, it is important to note that anyone who has had close contact with an mpox-infected individual is at risk of infection, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
High-risk individuals for mpox include those who meet specific criteria, such as gay, bisexual, and other men and transgender people who have sex with men, have multiple or casual sex partners (especially through dating apps), or expect to have this mpox risk in the future. Additionally, those who have a sexual partner falling into any of these categories, anyone with recent close contact with a person diagnosed with mpox, individuals with severely compromised immune systems, and those who have received only one dose of the mpox vaccine are also at higher risk.
To locate a provider offering the mpox vaccine, individuals are advised to visit the DOH’s website at health.hawaii.gov/mpox.
As the DOH continues its efforts to monitor and respond to mpox cases, public vigilance and adherence to safety measures are crucial in preventing further spread and protecting the community from the virus.