With the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring Mpox a global public health emergency, many Canadians are left wondering: “Should we be concerned?” This urgent designation, spurred by notable outbreaks across several African nations—especially in the Congo— aims to galvanize a unified global effort to curb the spread of the virus. However, it has also stirred understandably global unease, reminiscent of the anxiety seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fortunately for Canadians, the situation is comparatively reassuring. From January 1 to August 12, 2024, there have been only 164 Mpox cases reported, including 162 confirmed and 2 probable cases. Notably, all cases in Canada have been caused by Clade IIb of the Mpox virus, which is associated with a milder form of the disease compared to Clade I which is currently spreading at a high risk in Africa. There have been very few hospitalizations and no reported deaths, indicating that the impact of Mpox in Canada is currently under control. However, that is not to say one should become complacent—staying informed and taking necessary precautions remains essential for protecting yourself and others.
Understanding Mpox and Its Transmission
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is caused by a virus from the same family as smallpox. It is primarily spread through close physical contact, particularly skin-to-skin contact, including during sexual activities.
Dr. Lynora Saxinger, an infectious diseases physician at the University of Alberta, emphasizes that casual contact, such as passing someone on the subway, is unlikely to result in transmission. Instead, the virus spreads through direct contact with the lesions or scabs of an infected person, which can be found on the skin or mucosal surfaces.
Other potential transmission routes include contact with contaminated personal items, such as bedding, clothing, and sex toys, as well as respiratory particles during close interactions. Emerging evidence also suggests that Mpox may be contagious 1 to 4 days before symptoms appear, known as pre-symptomatic transmission, although the frequency of this transmission mode is still under investigation.
Risk Groups: Who Is Most Vulnerable?
In Canada, according to Doctor Isaac Bogoch, an infectious diseases specialist based at Toronto General Hospital, almost all of the Mpox cases have been observed among people with multiple sextual partners, and men who report sexual contact with other men. Here though it is important to stress that the risk of exposure to the virus is not limited to any group or setting. Anyone can get or pass on Mpox if they come into close contact with someone who has the virus, regardless of sex, race, gender or sexual orientation.
According to local public health units across Canada, sec workers are also at high risk for infection.
As Bogoch said,” It’s important to identify the communities at risk for a meaningful and effective public health response and to gear communication and vaccinations to them”
Prevention and Vaccination: What You Can Do
For the general public, the risk of contracting Mpox remains low. However, those within identified risk groups, including MSM with multiple sexual partners and sex workers, are encouraged to get vaccinated. Household contacts of infected individuals may also be eligible for vaccination to limit the spread.
To reduce your risk, experts recommend the following measures:
- Get vaccinated if you fall within the at-risk groups.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as lube, sex toys, toothbrushes, and bedding.
- Use condoms on sex toys and change them between partners.
- Limit your number of sexual partners.
- Avoid close physical contact with anyone showing signs of Mpox, such as unusual lesions or rashes.
- Practice good hygiene, including regular hand-washing and disinfecting high-touch surfaces.
Symptoms and What to Watch For
Symptoms of Mpox typically develop between 5 to 21 days after exposure and can last for 14 to 28 days. Common symptoms include a rash or sores on various parts of the body, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and general fatigue. If you suspect you may have been exposed, it’s essential to isolate, seek testing, and contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
Stay Informed
As the situation evolves, staying informed through reliable sources is key. By understanding the risks and taking appropriate precautions, Canadians can help prevent the spread of Mpox while maintaining perspective on the current public health landscape.
