The Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit (HNHU) is urging eligible residents to get vaccinated against Mpox as cases continue to rise.
Since mid-January 2024, Ontario has reported 142 Mpox cases, a significant increase from 33 cases in 2023.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern.
Mpox spreads through contact with infected lesions, blisters, body fluids, or respiratory secretions, and is primarily transmitted through close or intimate contact, especially among male-to-male interactions in Canada.
The virus has two subtypes, Clade I and Clade II (IIa and IIb), with all Canadian cases linked to Clade IIb.
HNHU recommends two vaccine doses for the best protection, with the second dose administered 28 days after the first. Residents can learn more about vaccine eligibility and book appointments at upcoming clinics by visiting hnhu.org/Mpox.
Written by Jeremy Hall