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Mpox cases have been on the rise in Mecklenburg County, public health officials said Friday.
There were three cases in October and seven so far this month, according to Mecklenburg County Public Health.
This comes while Clade I, a more deadly strain of the virus, has been reported in parts of Europe and Africa.
“While the overall risk from mpox in our community is very low, we encourage those who are at higher risk to take steps to protect their health,” Mecklenburg County’s Health Director Raynard Washington said. “The vaccine remains the best tool we have to prevent mpox and serious complications from the virus.”
Mpox, previously called monkeypox, can spread from rodents and primates, like monkeys, to humans, according to the Mayo Clinic. But it is mainly spread person to person through close, skin-to-skin contact with someone who is infected.
People at higher risk for contracting the virus are those with weakened immune systems, babies, pregnant women and people who have had eczema.
Common symptoms include:
- Rashes
- Fever
- Chills
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Exhaustion
- Muscle aches and backache
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion
- Cough
Getting vaccinated can help reduce the likelihood of contracting mpox and make symptoms less severe if so.
Mpox vaccinations are available at Mecklenburg County Public Health clinic locations. People can call 704-336-6500 to make an appointment or walk in any time during business hours.
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Caroline King
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