Ottawa: The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has confirmed the first case of clade I mpox in Canada. The case, reported in Manitoba, is linked to an ongoing outbreak of clade I mpox in central and eastern Africa. The individual, who recently returned from travel to the affected region, sought medical care shortly after exhibiting symptoms and is currently isolating. Contact tracing and a public health investigation are underway.
PHAC, in collaboration with Manitoba health authorities, received confirmation from the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) on November 22 that the sample tested positive for mpox clade Ib. While clade II mpox has been circulating in Canada since 2022, this marks the first case of clade I mpox in the country.
PHAC stated that the risk to the general Canadian population remains low. Mpox, a viral infection characterized by a painful rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle pain, is contagious through close physical contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects. Severe cases are more likely in children, pregnant individuals, and those with compromised immune systems, such as people living with HIV.
Although vaccination for the general public is not recommended, PHAC emphasizes vaccination for high-risk individuals as an effective prevention strategy. Canada has a sufficient supply of mpox vaccines to support provincial and territorial health programs.
PHAC advises travelers to follow measures outlined in travel health notices, including avoiding close contact with individuals exhibiting symptoms of mpox. For those exposed to mpox, post-exposure vaccination is recommended within 4 days, though it may still be administered up to 14 days after exposure.
People showing symptoms are urged to immediately isolate at home and contact their healthcare provider. Travelers experiencing symptoms should inform flight attendants or border officers upon arrival, allowing for a quarantine officer’s assessment and further action.
PHAC highlights that early detection, isolation, contact tracing, and vaccination are crucial to controlling clade I mpox transmission in Canada. The agency continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as needed.