Mpox Cases Surge in the U.S. as Vaccination Efforts Lag

The U.S. sees a significant increase in mpox cases at the start of 2024, with vaccination rates failing to keep pace, raising concerns about potential outbreaks.

Mpox cases in the U.S. have nearly doubled in early 2024 compared to the same period last year, with 511 cases reported as of mid-March.
Vaccination rates remain low across the country, with less than a quarter of the at-risk population fully vaccinated in most states.
A new, more transmissible and severe subtype of the virus has been identified, though not yet found in the U.S.
Public health experts emphasize the importance of vaccination to prevent outbreaks, especially ahead of social events like Pride season.
Federal resources for managing the public health response have decreased since the expiration of the public health emergency over a year ago.