Three new cases reported in Wake County since January

Wake County Public Health is encouraging those at risk for mpox to get vaccinated and help prevent the spread by taking advantage of convenient, no-cost appointments and walk-in clinics.

This reminder comes on the heels of three new mpox cases confirmed in Wake County within the last six weeks.

“The vaccine for mpox is widely available and is a safe, effective way to lower your risk of getting the virus,” said Wake County Commissioner Cheryl Stallings. “At Wake County, we’re making it as easy as possible for anyone who would like to receive the shot to do so. Getting the vaccine now can help protect you through spring and summer when large events and festivals tend to take place.”

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a virus in the smallpox family. It first rose to the national spotlight in summer 2022 when there was an unusual global outbreak with more than 31,000 cases reported in the U.S. Since the beginning of the outbreak, 721 cases have been reported in North Carolina, with 119 of those being in Wake County.

Where to get vaccinated
Wake County Public Health offers both walk-in and appointment services for the vaccine.

Walk-in services (no appointment needed):

• Wake County Public Health Center - HIV/STD evening clinic
  10 Sunnybrook Road, Raleigh (Clinic E)
  Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
   

Appointment only services:

• Wake County Public Health Center – Immunization Clinic
  10 Sunnybrook Road, Raleigh (Clinic E)
  Monday - Friday, 8:15 a.m.–5 p.m.
  Call 919-250-3900 to make an appointment.
   

The JYNNEOS vaccine is a two-dose injection that helps prevent against mpox when given before or shortly after exposure to mpox.

Mpox symptoms
According to the CDC, symptoms of mpox can include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches and backache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion
• A rash that can look like pimples or blisters that appears on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body, like the hands, feet, chest, genitals or anus
   

In addition, those at risk of getting sick with mpox should consider taking the following safety precautions:

• Limit close contact with people who have sores or symptoms, or who have been recently exposed to mpox.
• Avoid touching items or materials that someone with mpox has used.
• Practice good hygiene and wash your hands with soap or water.
   

Learn more about mpox, including where to find testing and vaccinations, at wake.gov/mpox.