San Diego County public health officials are urging people at greater risk for mpox to get both doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine as cases rise statewide and globally, including reports of the more severe Clade I strain.
The county has reported 12 Clade II cases this year, mostly among people who were not fully vaccinated. All involved men between ages 17 and 52.
According to the county’s public health department, the two-dose JYNNEOS series offers the strongest protection. People who have received only one dose are urged to complete the series as soon as possible. Protection peaks two weeks after the second dose. No additional doses are recommended for people who have already completed the full two-dose series.
The JYNNEOS series vaccines lower the risk of severe disease, “especially important for people with weakened immune systems, those with certain skin conditions, and other risk factors,” according to a county statement.
“It is really important that people complete both doses of JYNNEOS vaccine. You are best protected against mpox that way,” said Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan, county public health officer. “Now is a great time to get up to date as we head into summer events.”
Statewide, mpox — formerly known as monkeypox — has more than doubled compared with the same period in previous years. The California Department of Public Health is investigating a travel-associated Clade I case in San Francisco, but no Clade I cases have been reported in San Diego County.
The disease spreads through close physical contact. Symptoms can include a painful rash or sores and sometimes flu-like symptoms. Avoiding contact with people who have rashes or scabs, not sharing personal items and frequent hand washing help reduce risk.