Canada’s Public Health Agency (PHAC) has confirmed the first case of clade I mpox in the country. The case, reported on Friday, involves a person in Manitoba who recently traveled to a region experiencing an outbreak.
PHAC explained that this case is linked to the ongoing mpox outbreak in central and eastern Africa. The individual developed symptoms after returning to Canada, sought medical care, and is now isolating.
“PHAC is closely collaborating with Manitoba’s public health authorities. The National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) confirmed on November 22 that the sample tested positive for clade I mpox,” the agency said in its statement.
Clade I vs. Clade II Mpox in Canada
While clade II mpox has been present in Canada since 2022, this is the first confirmed clade I mpox case in the country.
The World Health Organization (WHO) earlier noted that mpox remains a public health emergency. In August, WHO declared a global emergency after clade Ib, a new variant of the virus, spread from the Democratic Republic of Congo to nearby nations.
What is Mpox?
Mpox is a viral infection transmitted through close contact. It typically causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled skin lesions. While most cases are mild, mpox can be severe or even fatal in some instances.
Current Risk in Canada
PHAC emphasized that the risk to the general Canadian population remains low, but they continue to monitor the situation actively. A public health investigation, including contact tracing, is ongoing to prevent further spread.
