August 16, 2024 | Public Health Agency of Canada
Mpox, formerly called monkeypox, remains under close surveillance by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) in collaboration with provincial and territorial partners. While the risk to the general public remains low, ongoing monitoring ensures the safety of Canadians
Current Situation in Canada
Since the outbreak in 2022, all reported cases of mpox in Canada have been caused by clade IIb. This strain is known to be less severe than clade I, which has recently emerged in parts of Africa. Between January 1 and August 12, 2024, 164 cases were reported to PHAC, with 162 confirmed and 2 probable. The majority of cases have been detected in gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, with local transmission patterns suggesting community-level spread.
Although some regions of Canada have observed a rise in cases over the summer, particularly related to travel and mass gatherings, case numbers remain significantly lower than during the peak of 2022. The severity of cases remains low, with minimal hospitalisations and no reported deaths.
Wastewater surveillance continues to play a critical role in tracking both clade II and clade I monkeypox. PHAC has been monitoring for potential introductions of clade I mpox to Canada, though no cases have been identified so far.
For a more in-depth look at Canada’s epidemiological trends, read the Epidemiological Summary Report: 2022-2023 Mpox Outbreak in Canada
Global Monkeypox Situation
On August 14, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) in response to the rise in clade I monkeypox cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and other African countries. The newly discovered clade 1b strain has heightened concerns about cross-border spread, triggering global public health responses.
Canada is actively working with WHO and other international bodies to monitor and contain the global outbreak. Through close cooperation with domestic and global partners, Canada is contributing to surveillance initiatives and is prepared to support global vaccination efforts where needed.
For more details on the implications of the global monkeypox situation for Canada, view the Rapid Risk Assessment: Clade I Mpox Virus Outbreak
Public Health & Travel Guidance
PHAC has issued a Travel Health Notice recommending enhanced precautions for those traveling to areas impacted by mpox outbreaks. It’s crucial for travellers to be vigilant in areas where the virus is spreading and to avoid close contact in settings where transmission risk may be higher, such as large gatherings or events involving close interactions.
The Government of Canada continues to assess and update public health measures as new information emerges.