Mpox Cases Rise in Boston; New Vaccine Clinics Planned

Health officials in Boston and across Massachusetts are closely monitoring an increase in mpox cases. Between August 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026, Massachusetts recorded 77 mpox cases, a notable rise from the 23 cases reported during the same period in the prior year. Despite a recent decrease, the trend over the last eight months indicates an uptick from the low baseline observed in 2023 and 2024.

To combat this rise, the Boston Public Health Commission is introducing a new initiative to offer free mpox vaccinations at various clinics scheduled throughout the summer. The first clinic is set to coincide with the city's Pride flag raising on June 1. These efforts are crucial as mpox, a virus spread through close contact, continues to circulate, with clade II, the type found in Boston, being considered less severe than clade I.