Toronto/CMEDIA: Two travel-related cases reportedly of mpox clade Ib have been confirmed by the Toronto Public Health (TPH).
These are the first cases of this mpox variant identified in Toronto and Ontario.
Mpox activity in Toronto has only involved since 2022 the IIb strain of the virus. Clade Ib — associated with outbreaks in parts of Central and Eastern Africa — has been identified in a small number of travel-related cases internationally, including several European and has been countries.
Both clade Ib and IIb mpox can cause painful skin lesions, fever and other flu-like symptoms. Prevention and treatment are also the same for both types of mpox.
Mpox is a virus that spreads from person to person through contact with infected lesions, skin blisters, body fluids or respiratory secretions as well as from contacts with materials contaminated with the virus, including clothing or bedding, and through bites or scratches from infected animals.
Currently, mpox has spread mostly through close, intimate or sexual contact with a person who has the virus, with gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men most affected. The risk of mpox for the public remains low.
Although mox cases have been reported across the city, TPH recorded a higher concentration of cases among residents in the downtown core with 2025, 155 mpox cases were confirmed in Toronto.
While continuing to offer the Imvamune® vaccine to eligible residents through its clinics and community partners, TPH says that Vaccination is free and available without an OHIP card.
For optimal protection against both strains of mpox, two doses are recommended.
Those who have previously received one are partially protected but should receive a second dose and those who have received two doses do not need additional doses.
TPH says getting vaccinated is the best way to help prevent further mpox transmission and reminds eligible residents to get vaccinated against mpox as the virus continues to circulate in Toronto and internationally.
“Toronto Public Health continues to offer the mpox vaccine free of charge to eligible residents and encourages them to start or complete their vaccine series. It is not unexpected to see cases of this mpox strain, and vaccination remains the best protection against any mpox infection,” Dr. Michelle Murti, Medical Officer of Health, Toronto Public Health said.
TPH recommends that the second dose be taken 28 days after the first dose. For those who have been exposed to the virus, mpox post-exposure treatment is available. If an individual has already received a smallpox vaccine in the past, they should still get vaccinated for mpox, as they may not be protected.
Residents can learn more about mpox, vaccine eligibility, and how to book an appointment by visiting toronto.ca/mpox.
Book an appointment at a TPH clinic (toronto.ca/community-people/health-wellness-care/health-programs-advice/immunization/toronto-public-health-appointment-booking-system/) or contact your local 2SLGBTQ+ health-care service provider.
