Health Canada States Canadians Have Low Risk of Mpox Infection
Health Canada states that the risk to Canadians from the latest version of monkeypox or mpox remains low, even after the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global emergency.
“Although the risk to people in Canada from clade I mpox remains low at this time, the Government of Canada is closely monitoring the mpox situation in the DRC [Democratic Republic of the Congo] and neighbouring countries, while working with domestic and international partners to determine opportunities for support,” the release said.
They also note that clade II mpox is “less severe” than clade I.
Cases of clade IIb are still being reported in Canada, with a total of 164 cases as of Aug 12, Health Canada says, including 162 confirmed and two probable cases.
“Cases continue to be reported predominantly among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men,” Health Canada says.
“Most cases have been domestically acquired, suggesting ongoing localized transmission. Severity of cases in Canada remains low, with rare hospitalizations and no deaths reported to date.”
How Does Someone Become Infected with Mpox?
Person-to-person transmission can occur through direct contact with an infected person or shared contaminated objects, Health Canada says.
How Contagious is Mpox?
The mpox incubation period can be up to three weeks, according to Health Canada’s website.
A person who has symptoms is considered infectious until the lesion scabs have fallen off.
What are Mpox Symptoms?
The main symptom of mpox is lesions, which can occur alongside other signs, including fever, chills, sore throat, fatigue, headache, rectal pain, swollen lymph nodes, back pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
What Are Health Canada’s Treatment Options for Mpox?
Health Canada says patients with a confirmed case of mpox can take POXX (tecovirimat monohydrate capsules), an antiviral pill used to treat smallpox disease in adults and children. While it does not have “an approved Health Canada indication for mpox,” the agency says it can be used off-label.
There is also a vaccine available for those 18 years or older “who are at high risk for exposure,” says Health Canada.