Toronto Public Health has confirmed 14 mpox cases in the city since September, a sign that the virus is circulating more actively, according to a City of Toronto news release issued October 5.
The Public Health Agency of Canada has also been consistently detecting mpox in Toronto's wastewater, which the health unit says reflects the recent increase in cases.
Despite the rise, TPH says the risk to the general public remains low. The virus spreads most often through close, intimate or sexual contact with someone who is infected. Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men continue to be the group most affected in the current outbreak, the release said.
Mpox continues to circulate in Toronto, and we are currently seeing a rise in infections. Vaccination is the best way eligible residents can protect themselves. If you haven't received your first dose or still need your second, please book an appointment at a TPH Sexual Health Clinic or visit your 2SLGBTQ+ health-care service provider. – Dr. Michelle Murti, Medical Officer of Health, Toronto Public Health
What residents should know about mpox
Mpox is a viral infection that can pass between people through close contact, including touching skin lesions, blisters, body fluids or respiratory secretions. TPH says the virus can also spread through contaminated items such as clothing, bedding or towels.
Symptoms can include a rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle aches and fatigue.
Who can get vaccinated
TPH is encouraging eligible residents to check their vaccination status and to start or complete the two-dose mpox vaccine series. The vaccine is free and available even to people without an Ontario health card.
Two doses offer the best protection, the health unit says. Anyone who has had only one dose should get a second at least 28 days later. People who have already received two doses do not need any additional doses.
There is no specific treatment that prevents mpox infection, according to the release, which says being fully vaccinated is the best way to lower the risk of getting the virus.
Eligible residents can book an appointment at a TPH Sexual Health Clinic or contact a local 2SLGBTQ+ health-care provider. Information on eligibility and booking is available at toronto.ca/mpox.
Mpox is making a comeback. Now is a good time to check in with yourself and your friends about protection against the virus. Gay, bisexual and queer men have already shown how effectively our communities can respond when we have clear, trusted information and easy access to vaccination. If you're eligible, get your first dose, and if you started the series but haven't received your second, now is the time to complete it. – Gilles Charette, Director, Gay Men's Sexual Health Alliance
