Mpox cases surge in Montreal and across Canada

Medical News: Montreal and several other parts of Canada are experiencing a resurgence of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox), raising concerns among health officials. The city of Montreal has seen a sharp rise in cases of the clade 2b strain, which was the main culprit behind the 2022 outbreak. In 2024 alone, 25 new cases have been reported, with the majority occurring in just the past two months. This Medical News report will explore the key details of this outbreak, provide data on the situation in other parts of Canada, and emphasize the importance of completing the two-dose Mpox vaccine for those at risk.


Mpox cases surge in Montreal and across Canada

Current Outbreak in Montreal
Montreal is once again at the center of Mpox concerns, with 21 cases reported since mid-August, bringing the total number of cases in the city to 25 for 2024. This represents more than double the 11 cases recorded in 2023. In contrast, the 2022 outbreak saw about 400 cases, highlighting the severity of that period compared to the current situation. However, the sudden spike in recent months has triggered a public health response to prevent further spread.
 
This year’s cases are all linked to clade 2b, the same strain responsible for the 2022 outbreak in Montreal and other parts of North America. Most of the current cases were contracted locally, with only one case originating abroad. Mpox is primarily spread through prolonged physical contact, especially in high-risk populations such as men who have sex with men, including those who are transgender, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming. The virus can cause painful rashes and lesions, making it a serious concern for affected individuals.
 
Although Mpox primarily impacts specific communities, including sex workers and attendees of certain LGBTQ+ events, it can spread to anyone through close physical contact. Montreal’s public health authorities have noted that vaccinated individuals tend to experience less severe symptoms, further underscoring the importance of vaccination.
 
Mpox Infections in Other Parts of Canada
The resurgence of Mpox is not limited to Montreal. Across Canada, there has been an increase in reported cases throughout 2024. Ontario, in particular, has seen a dramatic rise. According to data from Public Health Ontario, the province has recorded 166 confirmed Mpox cases as of August 2024, compared to only 33 cases during the same period in 2023. Toronto has been the epicenter of the outbreak in Ontario, accounting for 83% of the province’s cases this year.
 
Other provinces are also reporting cases, though in smaller numbers. British Columbia and Alberta have each reported around 20 confirmed cases so far in 2024, while Quebec (outside of Montreal) has seen an additional 10 cases. These numbers may seem small compared to Ontario’s outbreak, but they reflect a worrying trend of Mpox spreading beyond major metropolitan areas.
 
The overall number of Mpox cases in Canada this year has already exceeded 255, with the likelihood of more cases being reported in the coming months.This incre ase comes after a relatively quiet 2023, where much of the country saw a decrease in cases following the 2022 outbreak.
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/mpox/outbreak-update.html
 
Vaccination Efforts and Concerns About Second Doses
Public health officials across Canada are emphasizing the importance of the two-dose Imvamune vaccine, which has proven effective in reducing the severity of Mpox cases. The vaccine is available to high-risk individuals through local health platforms, such as Montreal’s Clic Santé. However, a significant number of people who received the first dose of the vaccine have not returned for the second dose, which is necessary to provide full immunity.
 
Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada’s chief public health officer, has been vocal in urging those at risk to complete their vaccination series. “Please get that second dose in order to have the strongest immunity,” she said in a recent statement. Data from Ontario supports her concerns: only 36% of people who received the first dose of the vaccine have gone on to get the second shot. In Montreal, out of 18,349 individuals who received the first dose, only about half -9,645 people - have received the second dose.
 
The lag in second-dose uptake has been attributed to several factors. In the early stages of the outbreak, there was uncertainty about the scale of the epidemic, and health authorities were primarily focused on administering the first dose as quickly as possible. Additionally, the availability of the second dose was delayed in some regions. For example, in Ontario, second doses were not offered until several months after the first dose had been distributed.
 
The Threat of New Mpox Strains
While clade 2b remains the dominant strain in Canada, health experts are closely monitoring the emergence of clade 1b, a new and more severe strain of Mpox. This strain has been spreading rapidly in several African countries and has raised concerns about its potential to reach North America. Clade 1b has been associated with more serious symptoms and higher mortality rates compared to clade 2b.
 
Though clade 1b has not yet been detected in Canada, health officials warn that it could arrive in the country in the near future. Its potential spread highlights the importance of remaining vigilant, particularly in regions already dealing with clade 2b outbreaks.
 
Public Health Response
In response to the rising number of cases, public health agencies across Canada are ramping up efforts to promote the Mpox vaccine and raise awareness about the virus. In Toronto, public health clinics, along with community health partners, continue to offer Mpox vaccination services. Dr. Rita Shahin, associate medical officer of health for the City of Toronto, has emphasized the importance of completing the two-dose vaccination series for maximum protection. “Eligible residents are encouraged to start or complete the two-dose vaccination series for the best protection,” Dr. Shahin said.
 
The Public Health Agency of Canada has also issued guidelines for reducing the risk of Mpox transmission. People are advised to avoid close physical contact with those who show symptoms of the virus, such as rashes or lesions, and to refrain from sharing personal items like towels, clothing, and bedding with infected individuals. The agency also notes that Mpox can be spread through sharing utensils, toothbrushes, razors, needles, or sex toys.
 
Conclusions
The resurgence of Mpox in Montreal and across Canada is a reminder that public health threats can re-emerge even after initial outbreaks have been contained. The rise in cases this year highlights the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to prevent further spread. Vaccination remains the most effective tool for reducing the severity of Mpox infections, and public health officials are urging those at risk to complete their two-dose vaccination series.
With the potential threat of clade 1b on the horizon, it is more important than ever to take preventive actions. Public health agencies are working hard to promote vaccination and educate the public about the risks associated with Mpox. Completing the full vaccination course is key to minimizing the impact of future outbreaks and protecting the most vulnerable populations.
 
For the latest Mpox News, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
 
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