Hosted by Public Health Ontario
In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to the rapid transmission of clade IIb mpox via sexual contact across numerous countries where the virus had not been previously detected. Since 2022, mpox has continued to be detected globally, including in Ontario where an increase in cases have been reported since early 2024. On August 14, 2024 the WHO declared a PHEIC due to the emergence and rapid spread of a new clade I of mpox (called clade Ib) in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with spread to neighbouring countries.
This PHO Rounds will provide a background on the different mpox clades including an epidemiological update on the mpox situation globally and in Ontario. We will highlight key updates on laboratory testing for clade Ib, the use of third-generation smallpox vaccine to prevent mpox infection, and review infection prevention and control measures.