Fort Dodge Correctional Facility Mpox: Mpox has been detected at the Fort Dodge Correctional Facility in Iowa, marking the first cases in the state for 2024. This outbreak has triggered enhanced sanitation and isolation measures at the facility.
What Is Mpox?
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that was widely reported in 2022. The virus has two main forms or “clades”: clade I and clade II. Mpox spreads through close contact with an infected person or contaminated materials.
Current Situation at Fort Dodge
At the Fort Dodge Correctional Facility, mpox cases have been identified as clade II. The exact number of affected inmates is not yet clear. However, robust health measures are in place to manage the outbreak. Paul Cornelius, Chief of Staff for the Iowa Department of Corrections, stated that enhanced sanitation and isolation protocols are being used to prevent further spread.
Global Context and Clade Variants
Mpox gained global attention in 2022 when it spread to the U.S., Europe, Australia, and other regions. The virus was classified as a “public health emergency of international concern” by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to escalating infections in Africa. As of now, there have been over 20,000 suspected cases and more than 500 confirmed deaths in Africa.
The new clade Ib variant of clade I, which is more transmissible, has been noted in recent reports. However, the cases at Fort Dodge involve clade II, which was also responsible for the global outbreak in 2022.
Risk and Transmission
Clade II mpox is primarily spread through sexual and intimate contact. Men who have sex with men are at a higher risk of infection. Despite this, the disease can affect anyone who comes into close contact with an infected individual.
Measures and Vaccination
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) expects that if clade I were to appear in the U.S., it would cause lower morbidity and mortality compared to Africa. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to recommend vaccination for those at high risk.
The Jynneos vaccine is available and recommended for preventing mpox. If you are in a high-risk category, getting vaccinated can help reduce your chances of infection and make any illness less severe.
Summary of Mpox in the U.S. and Iowa
- 2024: First reported mpox cases in Iowa this year.
- 2022: Global outbreak brought attention to Mpox.
- Clade II: The strain identified at Fort Dodge.
- Clade I: More severe variant not yet detected in the U.S.
- Vaccination: Jynneos vaccine recommended for high-risk individuals.
What to Do
If you have concerns about Mpox or think you might be at risk, contact your healthcare provider. They can offer guidance and discuss whether vaccination is right for you.
Conclusion
The detection of Mpox at the Fort Dodge Correctional Facility highlights the need for ongoing vigilance and effective health measures. By staying informed about the disease and following recommended precautions, you can help manage and reduce the risk of Mpox.
