Toronto seeing rise in monkeypox cases; officials urging residents to get vaccinated – NOW Toronto

There have been 21 cases of monkeypox in Toronto so far this year, almost reaching the total number of cases reported in 2023.

Toronto Public Health (TPH) released a statement yesterday reminding residents to get vaccinated against mpox amid the rise in local cases. In 2023, there were a total of 27 confirmed cases of the virus in Toronto.

The virus spreads between people through contact with infected lesions, skin blisters, body fluids or respiratory secretions, according to the health agency. It can also be transmitted by contact with contaminated materials like clothing or bedding and through bites or scratches from infected animals.

Currently, mpox has spread mostly between people who have had close/intimate or sexual contact with a person who has the virus with gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men being most affected, TPH said in a news release.

The agency adds that travel is not a significant factor among current cases in the city, which suggests local community transmission of the virus.

None of the current cases were fully vaccinated, emphasizing the importance of starting or completing the two-dose vaccine series for the best protection, TPH added.

Mpox symptoms can start five to 21 days after exposure and include fever, headache, muscle aches, exhaustion, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash or painful blisters and lesions on the skin including around the genitals.

Eligible individuals who are unvaccinated are encouraged to get their first dose as soon as possible, and a second dose 28 days later.

Vaccination can protect against the mpox virus and help reduce serious symptoms. Individuals who received a smallpox vaccination in the past are not protected against mpox, TPH said.

Residents can inquire about the free vaccine where they access sexual health care. An OHIP card is not required to receive the vaccine.

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Toronto seeing rise in monkeypox cases; officials urging residents to get vaccinated - NOW Toronto