Ottawa Public Health confirms two new cases of mpox in the capital

Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is advising eligible residents at risk of contracting mpox to complete a two-dose vaccination series of Imvamune as soon as possible.

The health unit confirmed on Thursday, Aug. 17 that it is investigating two new cases of mpox in Ottawa.

OPH said it is believed the infections of mpox, previously known as monkeypox, were acquired locally.

These are the first cases of mpox in Ottawa since October of 2022.

“Ottawa Public Health is working closely with local partners such as MAX Ottawa and the AIDS Committee of Ottawa to encourage eligible individuals who have not been fully vaccinated against mpox with two doses of vaccine, to get their first dose or second dose of the vaccine at one of OPH’s immunization clinic as soon as possible,” said OPH on its website. “Individuals who have received a first dose can get their second dose at least 28 days after their first dose.”

Mpox is a viral illness that spreads from person to person through contact with infected lesions, skin blisters, body fluids or respiratory secretions. It can also be transmitted by contact with materials contaminated with the virus (e.g., clothing, bedding) and through bites or scratches from infected animals. At this time, mpox has spread mostly between people who have had close/intimate or sexual contact with a person who has the virus. The virus does not spread through casual contact. Anyone can get infected and spread mpox if they come into close contact with someone who has the virus, regardless of sex or gender, sex practices or sexual orientation, race or ethnicity.

Mpox symptoms usually start five to 21 days after exposure and can include fever, headache, muscle aches, exhaustion, swollen lymph nodes, rash, or blisters on the skin. Most people recover from mpox on their own without treatment.

“Vaccination continues to be the best way to protect against mpox and severe outcomes from mpox,” said Dr. Larua Bourns, associate medical officer of health for OPH. “Groups that are eligible for vaccination are encouraged to complete a two-dose vaccination series as soon as possible to help mitigate the circulation of this virus. Ottawa Public Health has been working closely with partners to offer the mpox vaccine to those who are eligible.”