There has been a sharp increase in monkeypox cases in Toronto since the beginning of the year, prompting public health officials to now warn eligible residents to ensure they are vaccinated.

The health agency confirmed that since January, 21 confirmed cases of the virus have been recorded in the city, compared to 27 cases in the entire year of 2023.

It stated that none of the infected individuals have been fully vaccinated and that travel is not a “significant factor” among current infections, indicating that there is local community transmission.

Dr. Eileen de Villa, Toronto’s medical officer of health, explained in a press statement, “Amid rising monkeypox cases in Toronto, it is important to recognize that most cases are not linked to travel, underlining the importance of vaccination.”

“Completing the two-dose vaccination series provides the best protection against monkeypox and helps reduce severe symptoms.”

Public health officials said monkeypox is currently spreading primarily in the city among people who have close/intimate or sexual contact with someone infected with the virus. TPH noted in a statement that the most affected individuals are gay, bisexual men, and men who have sex with other men.

Devan Nambiar, from the Sexual Health Alliance for Gay Men, said in the statement: “We want to remind CIS, gay, trans, and all men who have sex with men to get the first and second dose of the Mpox vaccine.”

“Monkeypox has not been eradicated, and we want you to take care of yourself and protect your sexual partners.”

Monkeypox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a virus transmitted from person to person through contact with infected lesions, skin blisters, body fluids, or respiratory secretions. It can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated materials such as clothing or bedding, as well as through bites or scratches from infected animals.

Monkeypox symptoms can start anywhere from five to 21 days after exposure and include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. The Toronto Public Health stated that these symptoms are followed by a rash or blisters and skin lesions that can be painful, including around the genitals.

The best way to prevent monkeypox is through a two-dose vaccine administered over 28 days, which protects vaccinated individuals from infection and also helps reduce severe symptoms of the virus. TPS said the vaccine becomes more effective after two weeks.

It should be noted that those who have been vaccinated against smallpox in the past are not protected against monkeypox.

Residents can find more information about the vaccine, which is free and accessible without an OHIP card, where they can receive sexual health care.