Riverside County highlights Pride health and safety ahead of major celebrations
Luis Avila
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – As Pride events bring thousands of visitors to the Coachella Valley this upcoming weekend, Riverside County health officials are urging the community to stay mindful of public health and safety. With an uptick in mpox cases and other health concerns during large gatherings, Riverside University Health System is reminding residents that prevention and vaccination remain key to keeping celebrations safe.
Riverside County has reported 24 mpox cases so far in 2025 — more than half in the last two months — with two virus types circulating locally. While numbers remain below 2024 levels, officials say the rise is a reminder that the virus has not gone away.
Health leaders also continue to address stigma and misinformation around mpox, emphasizing that the disease can affect anyone through close, prolonged contact. RUHS says awareness and open conversations are essential to keeping communities safe. Free mpox vaccinations and HIV/STI testing will be offered Nov. 8–9 at Greater Palm Springs Pride.
Stay with News Channel 3 for more.