Authorities in Virginia have issued a warning about a surge in mpox cases, urging the public to take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. Since the beginning of 2024, the state has reported 12 cases, matching the total number reported in the entire previous year.

Brandy Darby, director of the Virginia Department of Health’s division of surveillance and investigation, highlighted the geographical spread of this year’s cases, in contrast to the concentrated cases in Northern Virginia last year.

Following a decline in cases after a peak in 2022, health officials are now witnessing a resurgence, prompting concerns about public awareness and safety. Darby emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant, despite the temporary lull in reported cases, and stressed the availability of vaccines to mitigate the risk.

While mpox, previously known as monkeypox, may not be at the forefront of public consciousness, health authorities emphasize that it is still active and transmissible. Symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that can be painful, often resembling flu-like symptoms initially before the appearance of skin lesions.

Notably, the current outbreak has predominantly affected gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, according to the department’s news release. However, Darby cautioned that the virus can infect anyone and can also be transmitted through contaminated items.

As a preventive measure, individuals at risk or those in close contact with infected individuals are advised to consider vaccination, which is available free of charge as a two-dose series.