Health District reports first clade I mpox case in Clark County resident
Recent increase in clade II cases underscores importance of vaccination and recognizing symptoms
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:October 20, 2026
LAS VEGAS — The Southern Nevada Health District is reporting the first confirmed case of clade I mpox in a Clark County resident. The individual has no reported travel exposure. Separately, the Health District has reported 11 confirmed cases of clade II mpox since August 2026, marking a recent increase in cases.
Since the first mpox case was reported in Clark County in June 2022, the Health District has reported 365 cases.
“This first clade I case and the recent increase in clade II cases are reminders that mpox continues to circulate in our community,” said Dr. Cassius Lockett, District Health Officer for the Health District. “We encourage people at risk to get vaccinated and anyone who may have been exposed to seek guidance promptly. Recognizing symptoms and avoiding close contact when sick can also help prevent further spread.”
Mpox is caused by two types of the virus, known as clade I and clade II. Clade II caused the global outbreak that began in 2022 and continues to circulate at low levels in the United States. A large clade I outbreak spread widely in Central and Eastern Africa in 2024, with cases subsequently identified in other countries, including the United States. Both types can be prevented in the same ways, and the JYNNEOS vaccine is expected to protect against both.
The Health District offers mpox vaccination for eligible people ages 18 and older at its immunization clinics. The vaccine is given in two doses, four weeks apart. Appointments are available at www.SNHD.info/immunizations.
People who may have been exposed should contact a health care provider promptly about vaccination and monitor for symptoms for 21 days after their last exposure. Vaccination is most effective when given within four days of exposure. When given four to 14 days after exposure, it may still provide protection or reduce the severity of illness.
Mpox spreads primarily through close, sustained physical contact, including sexual or intimate contact. It can spread through direct contact with a person’s rash, sores, scabs or bodily fluids, including during kissing or oral, anal or vaginal sex. It can also spread through contact with contaminated items, such as clothing, bedding or towels, and during pregnancy or childbirth.
Symptoms typically begin within three weeks of exposure, and illness usually lasts two to four weeks. A rash may appear as bumps or blisters on or near the genitals or anus, or on other areas such as the hands, feet, chest, face or mouth. Other symptoms can include fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. Some people develop a rash without other symptoms.
Anyone who develops a new or unexplained rash or other symptoms consistent with mpox should avoid close contact with others and contact a health care provider. Call ahead before visiting a health care facility to let staff know about possible mpox symptoms.
People with suspected or confirmed mpox should take the following steps to prevent spreading the illness:
- Stay home and avoid close contact with others, including people and pets in the same household.
- Avoid sexual contact, kissing and other close physical contact.
- If being around others is unavoidable, wear a well-fitting mask and completely cover rashes and sores with clothing or bandages.
- Avoid sharing clothing, bedding, towels and other personal items.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after touching the rash. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable.
People with mpox should continue isolation until all sores have healed, scabs have fallen off and a fresh layer of skin has formed.
The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.