Rising Mpox Cases Spur Vaccination Warning Ahead of Palm Springs Pride
Friday, October 31
RIVERSIDE, CA (Oct. 31, 2025) – With a recent increase in mpox cases in Riverside County and upcoming Pride events, Riverside University Health System – Public Health (RUHS – PH) officials are reminding residents and visitors that the two-dose vaccination is one of the best protections against the disease.
“As we look ahead to the Pride events in November, we are excited to welcome in visitors from near and far to celebrate with us. We encourage participants to protect themselves by making sure they have received both doses of the JYNNEOS (mpox) vaccine. Vaccination against mpox is effective, and when combined with other prevention strategies, is one of the best ways to avoid illness,” said Riverside County Public Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky.
Mpox is a viral disease caused by two virus types, called clades. Clade I was recently documented in Riverside County in September and found to be locally circulating in Southern California in October, while clade II is connected to the broader spread of mpox in Riverside County since 2022.
Riverside County has reported 24 mpox cases in 2025, with more than half of those cases reported in the last two months. While 2025 cases remain lower than the 41 cases in 2024, the uptick in activity underscores that vigilance and vaccination remain essential to prevent further spread.
According to Dr. Chevinsky, two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine have shown protection for both clade I and clade II mpox. If more than 30 days have passed since an individual received a first dose, a second dose can still provide protection. For individuals who have already had two doses, no additional doses are recommended at this time.
Other prevention strategies include:
- Inquire about recent illnesses, rashes, or recent international travel with your sexual partner(s).
- Avoid sharing items (e.g., towels, bedding, intimate items) with someone who has an unexplained rash.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol).
- Avoid intimate contact until you can see a provider for testing if you notice new rashes or sores.
Symptoms of clade I and II mpox are similar, and can include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, headache and malaise that typically present five to 21 days after exposure. It is primarily spread through close, prolonged contact with a person infected by the virus, or contaminated materials such as bedding or clothing.
RUHS-PH will provide mpox vaccinations at no cost, along with free HIV/STI testing today Oct. 31, at Leather Pride from noon to 5 p.m. at Cathedral City Boys Club (CCBC), located at 68300 Gay Resort Dr. and Nov. 8-9 at the Greater Palm Springs Pride event at East Arenas Road and South Palm Canyon Drive.
Additionally, RUHS – Public Health offers regular JYNNEOS (mpox) vaccine clinics at no cost.
For more information about mpox in Riverside County, including vaccine clinic locations, visit www.ruhealth.org/mpox.
For additional vaccine options, visit EmpoweredAgainstMpox.com.
