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Monkeypox

 

Monkeypox is a viral infection that can be transmitted through close contact with lesions, body fluids, respiratory droplets and contaminated items from an infected person or animal. Monkeypox is usually a mild illness and symptoms often resolve over a few weeks.

The illness usually begins with the following symptoms:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches or pains
  • Swollen lymph nodes (e.g., in the neck and groin)
  • Fatigue

monkey pox vaccine clinic


Within 1 to 3 days after the onset of symptoms, individuals often develop a rash on their face, limbs (including palms of the hands and soles of the feet), genitals, and/or mucous membranes (such as the mouth or nose).

Most often, individuals will recover from a monkeypox infection without requiring treatment. Vaccination against smallpox can provide some protection against monkeypox. If you have been exposed to a confirmed or probable case of monkeypox, you may be eligible to receive a post-exposure dose of the Imvamune® vaccine.

If you have been exposed, and/or are experiencing any signs or symptoms of monkeypox, contact your healthcare provider for medical assessment.

 

For more information about monkeypox visit:

 

Public Health Ontario (PHO): Monkeypox

Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC): Monkeypox: Outbreak update – Canada.ca

World Health Organization (WHO): Monkeypox: factsheet

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Monkeypox

 


Health Care Providers

Effective June 16, 2022, monkeypox has been designated a Disease of Public Health Significance (DOPHS) under the Health Protection and Promotion Act (HPPA). Healthcare providers are required to report: persons under investigation (PUI), suspected, probable and confirmed cases directly to their local boards of health. Please notify HNHU of any individuals who are being investigated for monkeypox by calling 519-426-6170 ext. 3438, Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and after hours, call 1-877-298-5888.

 

For updated confirmed case counts, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada website:

Monkeypox: Outbreak update – Canada.ca

 

Refer to the following websites for more information:

Monkeypox Virus — Ontario Government

FAQs and vaccine guidance for Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), storage and handling). – Monkeypox | Public Health Ontario — includes an epidemiological summary, specimen collection and handling, IPAC for acute care)

 

 

 

For information on testing or to access the investigation tool, visit the Public Health Ontario website:

Monkeypox Virus | Public Health Ontario

Ontario Monkeypox Investigation Tool