OTTAWA,
ON, Nov. 22, 2024 /CNW/ - On November 22, 2024, the Public Health Agency of
Canada (PHAC) confirmed the first
case of clade I mpox in Canada in an individual in Manitoba. This travel-related case is
associated with an ongoing outbreak of clade I mpox in central
and eastern Africa. The individual
sought medical care for mpox symptoms in Canada shortly after their return and is
currently isolating. A public health investigation, including
contact tracing, is ongoing.
PHAC is working closely with public health authorities in
Manitoba. The National
Microbiology Laboratory (NML) notified the province on November 22 that the sample tested positive
for mpox clade Ib. While clade II mpox has been
circulating in Canada since 2022,
this is the first case of clade I mpox confirmed in Canada.
The risk to the general population in Canada remains low at this time. PHAC
continues to actively monitor the situation and will provide
updated information as it becomes available.
Mpox is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. The
rash can be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, chills,
headache, exhaustion, swollen lymph nodes, and back, joint and
muscle pain. In rare cases, it can be fatal. Mpox is contagious and
people in close contact with individuals with mpox, especially
those with visible lesions or symptoms, are at higher risk of
infection. Children, pregnant people, and those with compromised
immune systems, such as those living with HIV or other chronic
conditions, are at increased risk of severe disease from clade I
mpox.
At this time, vaccination of the general public is not
recommended. However, for those at high risk of exposure,
getting vaccinated is a key prevention strategy. The
Government of Canada has
sufficient supply of mpox vaccines to support provincial and
territorial programs for the prevention and control of mpox in
Canada.
People can also lower their risk of getting mpox by avoiding
close physical, including sexual contact, with someone who has mpox
or was exposed to mpox; and contact with personal items or objects
used by someone who has mpox.
When travelling to countries experiencing outbreaks, individuals
should take measures outlined in the travel health notice to
reduce their risk, including avoiding contact with someone who has
symptoms of mpox or who may have been exposed to mpox.
Individuals who have come into contact with someone who
has, or could have, mpox should:
- monitor for symptoms.
- contact their health care provider and local public health unit
for information on how to receive post-exposure vaccination as soon
as possible. It is preferable to receive the vaccine within 4 days
of the last exposure, but it can be offered up to 14 days since the
last exposure.
Individuals with symptoms should:
- immediately isolate at home away from others and contact their
health care provider.
- if travelling, tell a flight attendant before they land or the
border services officer as they enter the country. They will notify
a quarantine officer who can assess symptoms and determine further
measures.
Early detection, diagnosis, isolation, and contact tracing are
key to effectively controlling the transmission of clade I mpox
virus in Canada.
Related Links:
Mpox (monkeypox): Update -
Canada.ca
SOURCE Public Health Agency of Canada
