Toronto Public Health has confirmed 21 cases of mpox in the city since the beginning of this year, compared to the total of 27 cases recorded throughout 2023. Health officials urge eligible residents to get vaccinated against the virus, previously known as monkeypox, in light of the increasing cases.
Travel isn't a significant factor in the current cases, indicating local transmission, and none of the affected individuals were fully vaccinated. The virus primarily spreads through intimate or sexual contact, with men who have sex with men being the most affected demographic.
Symptoms of mpox typically appear five to 21 days after exposure and include fever, headache, muscle aches, exhaustion, swollen lymph nodes, and skin rash or blisters.
Toronto Public Health has recommended vaccination for individuals within the LGBTQ+ community who have had a confirmed sexually transmitted infection, have had or plan to have multiple sexual partners, or have frequented venues facilitating sexual contact such as sex clubs.
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