On August 2, 2022, the Los Angeles City Mayor declared a local emergency related to the increasing spread of what is now called the mpox virus.
Elected leaders of both the State of California and the County of Los Angeles had made similar declarations in the interest of public health, which are now in effect. On August 4, U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra likewise declared a public health emergency for the entire nation.
Additional details and links to updated public health information are below, from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH).
UPDATE:
On August 18, 2022, the White House National Response team announced a series of actions the Biden-Harris Administration is taking to further accelerate its response to the virus outbreak and mitigate its spread.
See the full text of the announcement.
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MORE ABOUT MPOX
Transmission
Anyone can get and spread mpox; it can be spread by:
- Touching mpox lesions on a person’s skin;
- Touching contaminated objects, fabrics (clothing, bedding, towels), and surfaces that have been in contact with someone infected;
- Coming into contact with respiratory droplets or secretions from their eyes, nose, and mouth.
The virus can also spread from animals to people (see below).
Testing
Individuals that suspect they have mpox should speak with their healthcare providers and get tested.
Vaccines & Eligibility
Check here for the LA County Department of Public Health’s most recent guidance on eligibility and vaccine appointments.
Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions
Additional information on the current vaccine
Isolation
If you are exposed to a confirmed mpox case, monitor your health for 21 days after your last exposure and contact your healthcare provider with any concerns. Isolation for a confirmed mpox case can last several weeks (from 5 to 21 days).
Information on isolation and cleaning
Workplace guidance for businesses
Mpox in Pets
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) explains how the virus can spread from animals to humans, and from humans to their household pets through close contact. See Pets in the Home for a detailed advisory.
STAY INFORMED
LA County Department of Public Health
State of California Department of Public Health
VIDEO: What is Mpox?