Honolulu-Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) has reported two new cases of monkeypox.

“Although the risk to most Hawaii residents remains low, localized monkeypox transmission has occurred,” said Vice State Epidemiologist Dr. Nathan Tan. “The rising number of cases in Hawaii highlights the importance of vaccination. If you are eligible, please take this step to protect yourself and our community.”

Cases in Hawaii

DOH has identified two additional cases of monkeypox.

• Oahu residents not associated with travel. Links to previous cases are under investigation.
• A non-resident case diagnosed on Oahu associated with travel outside Hawaii.

This brings the total number of cases reported in Hawaii since June 3 to 18.

vaccination

The JYNNEOS vaccine is available statewide to Hawaii residents age 18 and older. Immunization eligibility includes:

• You have been in close contact with someone who has or is suspected of having monkeypox in the past 14 days.
• Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, and transgender individuals with multiple or anonymous sex partners.
• Individuals with severe immunocompromise (e.g., advanced or poorly controlled HIV infection, aggressive cancer treatment, high-dose steroids), or certain skin conditions such as eczema; and family members at high risk of monkeypox or A person who has a sex partner.

DOH and health care providers in each county who directly reach out to individuals at high risk of monkeypox exposure continue to vaccinate eligible individuals. Individuals eligible for vaccination can make an appointment by contacting:

On Oahu, reservations are still being accepted at the Blaisdell Center on Saturday, August 20th and Sunday, August 21st from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Vaccinations are by appointment only. You can book online at health.hawaii.gov/docd/mpxvax or by calling (808) 586-4462.

DOH has received approximately 2,800 doses of JYNNEOS and continues to order the full allocation to Hawaii from the federal government. More than 1,000 doses have been administered.

JYNNEOS is a series of two doses approximately four weeks apart. The vaccine can be administered between layers of skin or under the skin, similar to the tuberculosis skin test. Both routes of administration offer the same high level of protection.

contagion; infection

Monkeypox is spread primarily through close contact with bodily fluids, diseased material, or items used by monkeypox patients. Monkeypox can spread through large droplets. These droplets can typically only travel a few feet, so prolonged contact is required.

Nationwide, the current cases are spread through the social networks of mostly gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. A case has been reported. However, anyone who has close contact with a monkeypox patient is at risk of infection, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

examination and treatment

People with monkeypox symptoms, such as flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, new or unexplained rashes or sores, should call their healthcare provider right away. Testing and treatment are available through your health care provider.

# # #

PDF: DOH reports two more monkeypox cases in Hawaii