Multiple media sources across the Charlotte Metro area have reported that Mpox, previously known as Monkey Pox (because the virus was originally discovered in a colony of macaques in 1958) is reportedly on the rise in the Charlotte Metro area again.
According to reports from the news departments of Charlotte television stations WBTV, WCCB and WCNC the viral infection was found in three people in October and had increased to seven by November, though no official press release was available from the NCDHHS at the time of publication.
The reported increase of numbers in Mecklenburg County is similar to other American cities that have confirmed a more severe strain of the Clade One Mpox virus, which has been spreading throughout Europe and Africa.
The risk to the larger community is said to be low, but high risk individuals, which includes men who are sexually active with other men, are encouraged to get vaccinated.
Sexual activity is not needed to pass the virus from one person to another. Skin to skin contact with the presence of sweat, such as what one might experience while on a dance floor or casually brushing against someone else can also pass the virus from someone who is infected to another who is not.
Dr Raynard Washington, the Public Health Director for Mecklenburg County was quoted in multiple interviews.
“While the overall risk from Mpox in our community is very low, we encourage those who are at higher risk to take steps to protect their health. The vaccine remains the best tool we have to prevent Mpox and serious complications from the virus.”
Earlier this year in March and April, particles of the Clade 1 Mpox virus were discovered in wastewater collected in Greenville, which implied there was at least one person undiagnosed living in the area, or possibly traveling through.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg announced its first case of Mpox over three years ago on June 27, 2022. At that time, panic swept trough the LGBTQ+ community, fearing a possible return to the COVID and AIDS pandemic. In some instances, healthcare workers refused to take blood samples from patients exhibiting symptoms.
Infections typically last 2 to 4 weeks and can cause symptoms similar to chickenpox, which can leave scarring. Additional symptoms are flu-like and include swelling of the lymph nodes as well as a rash with fluid filled bumps that eventually scab over.
Mecklenburg County officially released its latest advisory as of November 20, 2025, urging all healthcare providers to include Mpox as a part of their differential diagnosis for all patients who exhibit clinically consistent symptoms.
The virus is of significant concern for individuals who are HIV positive or immunocompromised. In such cases, an Mpox infection could lead to severe illness and even death, the advisory indicated.
There is a vaccine for Mpox, known as Jynneos. Most physicians offer the vaccine and it is also available through the Mecklenburg County Public Health department. Residents can schedule appointments by calling 704-336-6500 or buy simple walk-in during regular business hours.