New MPOX Variant Discovered in Two Toronto Patients
The term “Monkeypox virus” may not be unfamiliar to Ontarians. Some may recall that in 2022, a few cases of MPOX were reported in Toronto, classified as “Variant Clade 2b.” Just when medical specialists in Ontario thought the 2022 in cident was a one-time occurrence, the virus has reemerged, this time in the new “Variant Clade 1b” form.
According to Toronto Public Health (TPH), two travel-related cases of “Mpox Clade 1b” were confirmed in the city this week. This variant has been linked to outbreaks in parts of Central and Eastern Africa, as well as a small number of travel-related cases internationally, including in European countries.
Although Clade 1b is considered more severe than Clade 2b, both variants can cause painful skin lesions, fever, and other flu-like symptoms.
Symptoms:
Aside from rash (often on the face, hands, feet, or genital area), symptoms include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue.
Treatment:
The treatment for both virus Clades is the same: the Mpox vaccine, which Toronto Public Health continues to offer to eligible residents through its clinics and community partners. The vaccine is free and available with or without a health card. For “optimal protection,” the health agency recommends two doses.
Toronto Public Health states that individuals who have received two doses do not need additional vaccinations, while those who have received only one dose are partially protected and should get their second dose.
By the end of 2025, a total of 155 mpox cases had been confirmed in Toronto, with a higher concentration in the downtown core.
Transmission:
The virus can be transmitted through contact with contaminated materials, such as clothing or bedding, as well as through bites or scratches from infected animals.
According to the TPH news release, Mpox is currently spreading primarily through close, intimate, or sexual contact with an infected person, with gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men being the most affected group.
Residents can learn more about mpox, vaccine eligibility, and how to book an appointment by visiting www.toronto.ca/mpox.
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