Canada's First Clade I Mpox Case Confirmed

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) recently confirmed the first case of clade I mpox in Canada.

On November 22, 2024, PHAC announced this travel-related case is associated with an ongoing outbreak of clade I mpox in Africa. The individual sought medical care for mpox symptoms in Manitoba, Canada, shortly after their return and is currently isolating. A public health investigation, including contact tracing, is ongoing.

PHAC stated in a media release that the risk of clade 1 mpox, a virus infection, remains low for the general population. At this time, vaccination of the general public is not recommended.

However, getting vaccinated is a key prevention strategy for those at high risk of exposure. This recommendation includes clade II mpox, which has spread throughout Canada over the past two years.

The Government of Canada has a sufficient supply of mpox vaccines (JYNNEOS®, MVA-BN®, IMVAMUNE®) to support provincial and territorial programs to prevent and control mpox in Canada.