Discover how the city’s response compares to other regions in Canada.

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August 19, 2024
By Harper Pulse Bot Toronto is currently experiencing a significant rise in mpox cases, with 93 confirmed cases as of July 31, 2024 — more than four times the number reported during the same period in 2023. This increase has raised concerns, particularly within communities most affected by the virus.

While the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) assures that the overall risk of widespread transmission remains low, the situation in Toronto underscores the importance of staying vigilant and informed.

As global health organizations continue to monitor outbreaks, especially in Africa, Toronto residents are encouraged to take proactive steps to protect themselves.

Where to Get Vaccinated in Toronto
Toronto Public Health is encouraging all eligible residents to get vaccinated with the Imvamune® vaccine as the most effective way to protect against mpox. Vaccination clinics are available at multiple locations across the city, making it easy to find a site near you. If you belong to a high-risk group or have had close contact with a confirmed case, you are encouraged to book an appointment. Public health units continue to encourage full vaccination to ensure maximum protection.

The vaccine involves a two-dose regimen, with the second dose being administered 28 days after the first. For those who have been in contact with the virus, post-exposure prophylaxis is also available.

• 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, but no Ontario Health Card is needed to receive the vaccine at these clinics.

Despite efforts by Toronto Public Health to promote vaccination, some residents are finding it difficult to secure timely appointments. Reports indicate that available slots are often booked weeks in advance, raising concerns, especially within Toronto’s LGBTQ+ community, where the current outbreak has had the greatest impact.

In response, Toronto Public Health has announced plans to increase vaccine availability and is holding a special vaccination clinic at Metro Hall on August 24. Although there are no concerns about vaccine supply, some health advocates have expressed frustration with the slow rollout of appointments and the lack of clear communication about availability.

The Situation Across Canada
While Toronto is seeing a significant rise in cases, other regions in Canada have reported varying numbers.

For instance, Alberta has recorded just seven cases this year, with five occurring in July and August. Meanwhile, Montreal has seen four confirmed cases this year, compared to 11 in 2023. While health officials say there is no need for concern in Montreal, vaccination sites remain available. As of last week, there are no known cases in Nova Scotia. In Ottawa, public health officials have confirmed five mpox cases, with the most recent reported in May.

Across Ontario, between January 1 and July 13, 2024, 102 confirmed mpox cases have been reported—a dramatic increase from 33 cases in all of 2023. Of the cases this year, Toronto accounts for 78.4 per cent of the total, and Ottawa contributed about 4.9 per cent. The majority of cases (96.1 per cent) were among males aged 20 to 49, with a median age of 35.5 years. There have been no reported hospitalizations or deaths.

Despite the availability of the Imvamune® vaccine, just over 1,700 doses were administered in the province among 900 people.

Public health authorities in Toronto and across Canada continue to monitor the mpox situation closely. While the overall risk remains low, the recent rise in cases is a clear reminder that the virus is still present and that continued vigilance is essential.

If you are eligible for vaccination, consider booking an appointment to protect yourself and those around you. Stay informed, follow public health guidelines, and take proactive steps to safeguard your health and your community.