Mpox is here in our community

The viral infection known as mpox is here in Alberta, and is spreading amongst members of our community. While investigations are still ongoing, most, but not all global cases identified to date have been among men who report sex with other men and have multiple partners.

This infection is usually found in rodents and other animals, which occasionally causes infections in humans. Human infections are on the rise worldwide, and our community is no exception.

Do you need to be worried? Read more to get the facts on mpox, and learn how you can protect yourself!

Mpox is affecting our community. Know the signs and symptoms, and Seek out testing if needed.

Symptoms of mpox can present similarly to syphilis and herpes, with one or more sores on the genitals, rash on the body, and sometimes fever and swollen lymph glands. Sores or a rash can develop between 5 and 21 days after exposure to a mpox case.

What’s up with mpox?

The virus is not easily transmitted between people. Most of the recent cases have been transmitted by close skin-to-skin contact with someone with symptoms, or by touching things that have been in contact with the virus (bedding, towels, clothes, sex toys, etc.).

Mpox is also believed to be transmitted through saliva and respiratory droplets, likely requiring prolonged exposure (three or more hours) while unmasked in a room close to someone who has the virus.

GEt to know mpox.

While most people who are infected with mpox have mild symptoms and will usually get better without any treatment, it is important to get tested if you have any symptoms.

To date, there have been no deaths reported during this outbreak. Some persons, e.g. those with a weakened immune system or with very severe infection, may require treatment and/or have an increased risk of severe complications. Treatment is available for severe cases after specialist consultation.

Mpox is showing up in the queer community.

Although the majority of the cases in the recent outbreak have been seen in gay, bisexual, and men who have sex with men (gbMSM), anyone who comes into close contact with someone who has monkeypox could potentially get the virus.

The reasons why the majority of cases have been seen in gbMSM are currently unclear. Viruses like mpox can spread through social networks. Some gbMSM have highly connected social and sexual networks globally, including travel to large social gatherings.

Once mpox is introduced to these networks, these networks may facilitate faster spread of the virus. It is possible that the mpox virus may also be spreading in other networks that have not been identified yet.

There is a vaccine available in Canada that provides protection against the mpox virus, including after exposure to the virus. Efforts are ongoing to determine who could benefit the most from the vaccine.

If you think you may have been a close contact to someone with mpox, contact your nearest Sexual Health service for testing.

Mpox can be passed on during close contact, including sex.

Avoid skin-to-skin or face-to-face contact with anyone who has symptoms (e.g., sores, skin rashes, fever, swollen glands). Consider minimizing the number of sexual partners you have while the monkeypox outbreak is ongoing.

Clean hands, objects, and surfaces that have been touched regularly. Wear a surgical mask if you are in close contact with someone suspected/known to have monkeypox.

Isolate from others and seek medical attention if you have any symptoms suggestive of mpox.

Notice an unusual rash, ulcer, or blister? Seek out testing.

You can call 811 or contact your nearest STI clinic/sexual health service to access testing for mpox. Testing will usually include swabs from any sores/skin lesions and possibly blood and urine tests. You can check out our testing page to find locations where you can get tested.