Understanding Mpox
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the Mpox virus, a member of the orthopoxvirus genus. It can enter the body through broken skin (even if not visible), the respiratory tract, or mucous membranes such as the eyes, nose, or mouth.
How Mpox Spreads
Mpox spreads through close, personal, and often skin-to-skin contact, including:
- Direct contact with sores, blisters, or bodily fluids of an infected person.
- Contact with contaminated objects, such as bedding, towels, or clothing.
- Respiratory droplets during prolonged, close, face-to-face contact.
In 2022, most cases in Canada were transmitted during intimate, close contact, including sexual activity.
Symptoms of Mpox
Mpox symptoms typically last 2 to 4 weeks and occur in two stages:
First Stage
- Fever
- Chills
- Intense headache
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Back pain
- Muscle pain
- Fatigue or exhaustion
- Less common: sore throat, cough, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Second Stage
1 to 5 days after the first stage, a rash develops. The rash can appear anywhere on the body, including the hands, feet, face, or genitals. Over time, the sores:
- Start as raised spots.
- Develop into fluid-filled blisters.
- Form scabs that fall off.
If exposed to Mpox, symptoms can appear within 5 days to 3 weeks.
Complications
In severe cases, Mpox may lead to:
- Secondary infections
- Respiratory distress
- Encephalitis
Mpox in British Columbia and Canada
Epidemiology
Since May 2022, British Columbia has reported 253 confirmed Mpox cases:
- 2022: 190 cases
- 2023: 20 cases
- 2024: 43 cases
Cases have been sporadic since the initial outbreak, with a slight increase in 2024, reflecting trends observed in other regions.
Across Canada, outbreaks in 2022 highlighted the need for rapid response, with Health Canada implementing vaccination campaigns and public health outreach.
Vaccination Against Mpox
Imvamune® Vaccine
Canada uses the Imvamune® vaccine to protect against Mpox and reduce symptom severity.
Key Facts About Imvamune®:
- Administered as a two-dose series, with doses 28 or more days apart.
- Can be given:
- Before exposure (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) for high-risk groups.
- After exposure (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis), ideally within 4 days.
- Recommended for:
- Close contacts of infected individuals.
- At-risk populations (e.g., 2SGBTQ+ community, healthcare workers).
Vaccination is free and available through local public health offices.
Preventative Measures
To reduce the risk of Mpox:
- Avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms.
- Wash hands frequently.
- Cover sores or blisters with bandages or clothing.
- Get vaccinated if eligible.
What to Do If You Are Exposed
If you’ve been exposed to Mpox:
- Monitor symptoms for up to 21 days.
- Contact your local public health office if symptoms appear.
- Avoid close, intimate contact until you have been assessed.
If You Test Positive for Mpox
- Follow public health guidelines to isolate and prevent further spread.
- Avoid close contact with vulnerable individuals, such as children, pregnant individuals, or those with weakened immune systems.
Treatment Options
Most cases of Mpox are mild and resolve without medical intervention. However, severe cases may require:
- Medications for pain or secondary infections.
- Hospitalization in rare cases.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s public health measures, including widespread vaccination and educational campaigns, have been crucial in managing Mpox outbreaks. Continued vigilance, vaccination efforts, and public health education remain essential to control the disease.
For information, please visit BC Centre for Disease Control: Mpox or Mpox | HealthLink BCÂ
For information on the situation in Canada, refer to the Public Health Agency of Canada: Mpox (monkeypox).
For recommendations for the 2SGBTQ+ community, please visit BC Centre for Disease Control: Recommendations for Two-Spirit, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer communities (2SGBTQ+).
