Los Angeles County health officials are reporting a significant uptick in mpox cases, prompting renewed calls for vaccination among high-risk groups.

The County's Department of Public Health announced that 52 mpox cases were reported in the past four weeks, compared to 24 in the previous four-week period.

About 70% of new cases in the last six months occurred in unvaccinated individuals.

Health officials strongly recommend vaccination for several high-risk groups, including men and transgender people who have sex with men or transgender persons, persons of any gender or sexual orientation who have sex or intimate physical contact with others in association with large public events or engage in commercial and/or transactional sex, and those living with HIV.

"Vaccination is an important tool in preventing the spread of mpox," the County health department said in a statement. The two-dose JYNNEOS vaccine is available at pharmacies for insured residents and at Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Clinics for free without appointments.

Officials advise residents to practice safe sex, limit sexual partners, and avoid intimate contact with anyone showing mpox symptoms, which include rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Additional prevention measures include asking partners about symptoms, reducing the number of partners, and proper use of condoms and gloves.

The County emphasizes the importance of testing for those who develop symptoms consistent with mpox. The Department of Public Health is collaborating with healthcare providers and community organizations to intensify surveillance, contact tracing, and outbreak investigations to curb transmission.

Mpox, previously referred to as Monkeypox, is mainly spread through close physical contact. Residents seeking more information can visit ph.lacounty.gov/mpox or call the Department of Public Health Call Center at 1-833-540-0473.