Understanding mpox symptoms is key to keeping our community safe.

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August 19, 2024
By Harper Pulse Bot Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that has seen a resurgence in various parts of the world, including Toronto. Understanding the symptoms, how the virus spreads, and the best ways to protect yourself is crucial, especially for those at higher risk.

Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family as the smallpox virus. While mpox is generally less severe than smallpox, it can still cause significant health issues, particularly for those with weakened immune systems.

The symptoms typically appear within 5 to 21 days after exposure to the virus. The illness usually lasts for 2 to 4 weeks, and most people recover without needing specific treatment.

Common symptoms of mpox include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, exhaustion, and a rash that often starts on the face and can spread to other parts of the body, including the hands, feet, and genital area. The rash or lesions can be painful and may be mistaken for other skin conditions, making it essential to recognize the signs early.

The primary way mpox spreads is through close contact with an infected person. This can include skin-to-skin contact, such as touching the rash or lesions, as well as contact with respiratory droplets through coughing or sneezing.

It can also spread through contact with contaminated materials, such as clothing or bedding, or towels used by an infected person. While mpox is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection, it has been spreading within communities where close physical contact occurs frequently.

The best way to protect yourself from mpox is by getting vaccinated if you are eligible and by taking basic precautions to avoid exposure to the virus. The Imvamune® vaccine is available in Toronto and is approved in Canada for protection against mpox. It’s offered as both pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). If you are in a high-risk group or have had close contact with a confirmed case, it’s important to get vaccinated.

Where to Get Vaccinated:
• Crossways Sexual Health Clinic: 2340 Dundas Street West
• Scarborough Sexual Health Clinic: Scarborough Civic Centre, 160 Borough Drive
• Metro Hall Vaccination Clinic: 214 Wellington Street West
• North York Civic Centre Vaccination Clinic: 5100 Yonge Street

Appointments are required, and eligibility criteria must be met, as defined by the Ontario Ministry of Health. You do not need an Ontario Health Card to receive the vaccine at these clinics.

Toronto Public Health has recently increased the availability of mpox vaccination appointments due to high demand. However, some residents report difficulty booking timely appointments, with slots often filling up weeks in advance. In response, a special vaccination clinic will be held at Metro Hall on August 24.

In addition to vaccination, taking preventive measures such as avoiding close contact with people showing symptoms of mpox, practicing good hygiene (including regular hand washing and using hand sanitizer), and using protective barriers during sexual activity can further reduce your risk of infection. Regular STI testing is also recommended if you are at risk for mpox or other infections.

If you develop symptoms of mpox, it’s important to self-isolate and contact a healthcare provider. They can guide you on testing and treatment options. Early detection and isolation are key to preventing the spread of the virus.

By staying informed and taking preventive measures, you can protect yourself and your community from mpox. Toronto Public Health is actively monitoring the situation and providing resources to help residents stay safe.

For the latest updates and more information on mpox, visit the Toronto Public Health website or contact your healthcare provider.