Unusual Virus Found in Hawaii's Wastewater
Wastewater from Oahu, Hawaii, has shown the presence of the clade I mpox, an unusual virus. The discovery was made by health department officials. However, the general public is not in immediate danger, as no clinical cases of clade I mpox have been reported in Hawaii so far.
The detection of this virus in the wastewater does not necessarily mean that it's spreading among the population. Instead, it serves as a warning signal to be on the lookout for possible mpox cases. Individuals who are more susceptible to a mpox infection should think about getting vaccinated with two doses of the mpox vaccine if they haven't already done so.
Where Was the Virus Found?
The virus-positive sample was taken on from a wastewater treatment plant located at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. This facility serves not only military housing on the base but also public places like the Pearl Harbor National Memorial Museum. This is the first time that the clade I mpox virus has been detected in Hawaii's wastewater.
Upon the discovery of the virus in the sample, a follow-up sample was collected from the same wastewater facility. This second sample tested negative for mpox. As a routine procedure, major civilian wastewater facilities in Oahu are regularly tested for the presence of the clade I mpox virus. So far, all other samples have tested negative.
How Does Mpox Spread?
Mpox is caused by two types of viruses - clade I and clade II. Both variants spread through direct contact with bodily fluids, lesion material, or items that have been used by an infected individual. However, it's important to note that mpox doesn't spread through the air or casual contact in shared spaces like classrooms, offices, or swimming pools.
Up until now, cases of clade I mpox in the mainland U.S. have been found in individuals who recently travelled to areas experiencing outbreaks, particularly Western Europe and Central and Eastern Africa.
What to Do If You've Recently Travelled
Those who have recently travelled to areas with active transmission of the virus, or have been in close contact with someone showing symptoms, are advised to monitor their health and talk to a healthcare provider about potential risks.
The symptoms of a mpox infection include a rash, fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes. The rash usually starts as small bumps that turn into blisters and pustules on the hands, feet, chest, face, mouth, or near the genitals. If you develop these symptoms and believe you are at high risk, you should immediately contact your healthcare provider to discuss testing and vaccination options.