Health advisory issued: NYC reports first case of Mpox Clade I

March 14, 2026 - 17:24

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has issued a health advisory following the confirmation of the city's first known case of a specific Mpox strain, known as Clade I. This marks a notable development, as the 2022 global outbreak primarily involved the less severe Clade II strain.

Officials report the individual is currently isolated and receiving care. While details are limited to protect patient privacy, the department emphasizes that the risk to the general public remains low. The case appears to be travel-associated, with no evidence of local transmission at this time.

Mpox, which causes a potentially painful rash and flu-like symptoms, spreads through close, often intimate, contact. The Health Department is actively conducting contact tracing to notify individuals who may have been exposed. They urge healthcare providers to be vigilant for symptoms and to test suspected cases, particularly among individuals with recent travel to Central Africa, where Clade I is more common.

Vaccination remains a key protective measure, especially for those at higher risk. City health officials are encouraging New Yorkers who are eligible, particularly those with multiple sexual partners or other risk factors, to ensure they are fully vaccinated with the two-dose JYNNEOS vaccine series.