Potential Risk for Resurgence in Mpox Cases

Potential Risk for Resurgence in Mpox Cases

Mpox cases in Philadelphia peaked in July 2022, and have since decreased significantly.

Around the country, there have been sporadic mpox cases in 2023. Chicago, however, has experienced a resurgence of mpox cases between April and May 2023.  
 
In May 2023, one mpox case was identified in Philadelphia after several months with no cases. More cases are expected to be identified in Philadelphia in the coming days and weeks.  
 
“Since there was one reported case in May, [I suspect] that there were others that were subclinical or went undiagnosed,” says Dr. Lenore Asbel, infectious disease expert at the Division of Disease Control.  
 
“As providers [and] the community were aware of the cases in Chicago, there [has been] a slight uptick in both providers offering and patients seeking vaccine. We are trying to be proactive as last year the increase coincided with Pride activities, travel, etc.” 

Mpox Cases in Chicago 

Of the mpox cases reported in Chicago, all were among men who were symptomatic, and none of these patients were hospitalized.  
 
9 out of the 13 patients who are known to have had mpox in Chicago between April 17 and May 5 had received 2 JYNNEOS vaccine doses.  

While patients who tested positive in Chicago were largely vaccinated, those who have been fully vaccinated are likely to develop milder symptoms than those who aren’t vaccinated. They are also less likely to transmit the virus to others.  
 
There have been 20 additional mpox cases reported in Chicago since May 5. Track reported mpox cases in Chicago here. 

What You Need to Know 

The CDC offers communication resources for providers to educate patients about mpox vaccination. Learn about how to reduce stigma when educating patients about mpox. 
 
Prepare your patients for the summer with resources for sexual health testing and mpox vaccination.