THE ALASKA STORY
Nov. 9, 2026 – Three cases of mpox, also known as monkeypox, were confirmed in Anchorage during October, including the first reported Alaska infections involving clade I of the virus, according to an Oct. 29 state public health alert. This is a sexually transmitted disease, primarily, not something most Alaskans must worry about catching.
All three patients are male, and none reported travel outside Alaska. Investigators identified a connection between the first two cases but had not established a link to the third when the alert was issued.
One patient was briefly hospitalized. All three were isolating and recovering as of the alert, and the investigation remained ongoing.
Testing identified clade Ib in the first two patients. The third patient’s clade determination was pending. Clades are genetically distinct groups of the virus.
The findings mark a change from the clade IIb virus responsible for the global mpox outbreak that began in 2022. The Alaska Section of Epidemiology said imported clade I cases had increased since March 2026, with presumed local transmission reported in 15 US jurisdictions since August.
Historically, clade I has been associated with more severe illness and higher fatality rates than clade II. However, the state said recent clade I outbreaks have had substantially lower mortality, particularly where appropriate medical care is available. Most recently reported US clade Ib cases have been mild, although people with weakened immune systems can develop severe disease.
Mpox spreads primarily through direct contact with infectious sores, scabs or bodily fluids, including during sexual contact. Contaminated bedding, towels and clothing can also transmit the virus. The state said transmission has not been documented through brief, casual interactions.
Symptoms can include fever, chills, fatigue, headache, muscle aches and swollen lymph nodes. Some patients develop only a rash. Lesions can appear on the genitals, around the anus, in the mouth, on the palms or soles, or elsewhere on the body, where sexual contact has been made.
The state urged clinicians to consider mpox in patients with compatible symptoms regardless of travel or sexual history. Testing is available through the Alaska State Public Health Laboratory and certain commercial laboratories.
People who develop a suspicious rash should avoid close physical and sexual contact and call a health care provider before arriving for an evaluation. Patients with confirmed infections should remain isolated until all lesions have healed, scabs have fallen off and new skin has formed.
The JYNNEOS vaccine is expected to protect against both major clades. The recommended series consists of two doses 28 days apart. Vaccination is recommended for adults with specified exposure risks, including certain sexual exposures, occupational risks and travel-related risks.
After a known or suspected exposure, the state recommends vaccination as soon as possible, ideally within four days. Vaccination four to 14 days after exposure may reduce illness severity, the state says.
Residents seeking vaccination can call the Anchorage Health Department at 907-343-4799 to confirm availability and arrange an appointment.
Questions or suspected cases can be directed to the Alaska Section of Epidemiology at 907-269-8000 during business hours.
