Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Oct 06, 2025 2 hours, 48 minutes ago
Medical News: In an unexpected turn, Chicago is bucking the national trend in 2025 by reporting a rising number of mpox (monkeypox) cases even as the rest of the United States sees declines. Between June and September 30, local health authorities documented 104 confirmed cases, surpassing the combined total for the same months in 2023 (40 cases) and 2024 (53 cases). The median age is 34, and most patients are men.
Chicago Mpox Surge Raises Alarms
A Closer Look at the Chicago Spike
This
Medical News report shows that despite nationwide reductions, Chicago’s outbreak is intensifying. The data come from the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), which is coordinating with partner agencies to mobilize vaccination campaigns. As of October 4, 2025, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not yet issued a formal Travel Health Notice for the city.
CDPH is hosting multiple vaccination drives throughout October, targeting populations deemed at higher risk — especially sexually active gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. The vaccine used is JYNNEOS®, available at Chicago’s sexual health clinics as well as in other locations across the U.S.
Global Trends and Virus Variants
On a broader level, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that as of September 19, 2025, 59 countries have confirmed a total of 3,780 mpox cases, including 15 deaths. Both known viral clades continue to circulate. The resurgence in Chicago may reflect local factors pushing transmission inside social networks.
What the Numbers Reveal
Chicago’s 104 cases over four months are far higher than past seasonal patterns.
Most patients are in their 30s and male.
Vaccination is being strongly encouraged to curb further spread.
Public Advice and Precautions
Health officials emphasize that vaccination is a critical tool to prevent further spread and protect individuals against severe illness. People who engage in close or intimate contact should stay alert to symptoms and avoid interactions if any rash or sores appear.
Final Thoughts and Key Lesson
This surge in Chicago highlights that mpox still poses local risks even when national trends are favorable. Prompt vaccination, awareness, and behavioral precautions are vital to stopping further spread and protecting vulnerable communities.
Reference:
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/cdph/provdrs/health_protection_and_response/news/2025/oct/cdph-weekly-media-brief-10-02-2025.html
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