Mpox Update

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
August 28, 2024

LAS VEGAS — The Southern Nevada Health District continues to report sporadic cases of Mpox in Clark County residents. To date in 2024, the Health District has reported seven probable and confirmed Mpox cases in Clark County.

There are two types of Mpox, clade I and clade II. Clade I can cause more severe illness and death and is endemic in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. There has been transmission to neighboring countries resulting in the current outbreak. No cases of clade I have been reported in the United States.

“Mpox spreads through close or intimate contact,” said Dr. Fermin Leguen, District Health Officer for the Southern Nevada Health District. “The most effective way for those at risk to protect themselves is by receiving two doses of the Mpox vaccine if eligible.”

For more information about vaccine availability and eligibility, please visit www.snhd.info/Mpox. The two-dose vaccine series is safe and effective in lowering the risk of contracting Mpox and reducing the severity of symptoms if one does become infected. Additionally, the vaccine can help prevent Mpox if administered within 14 days after exposure. To date, more than 11,740 doses of the vaccine have been administered in Health District affiliated clinics in Clark County.

People can take additional steps to protect themselves:

Avoid close contact with individuals exhibiting symptoms of Mpox, including those with rashes or lesions.
Avoid touching objects, clothing, bedding or materials used by someone with Mpox.
Watch for signs and symptoms for 21 days if exposed to Mpox and visit a health care provider.

For more information about Mpox, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox.

The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.