The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) identified the first case of clade I mpox in the state.

The person recently traveled to Western Europe, where the virus is currently spreading.

Clade I mpox had been predominantly contained to Central and Eastern Africa until recently.

More than 20 cases of clade I mpox have been reported in the U.S - but this is the first in Connecticut.

Mpox mainly spreads through skin to skin contact with the rash caused by the virus. 

Officials say that men who have same sex intercourse are at a higher risk of catching it.

The DPH urges those at risk to get fully vaccinated as people start traveling more for the summer.