On August 14, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) Director General issued a statement declaring a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. This is based on the increase in monkeypox cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and a growing number of African countries. It's also based on the emergence of a new sub-lineage of clade I mpox virus (clade Ib).

There are 2 known subtypes (clades) of mpox virus: clade I and clade II. Clade I is divided into 2 subclades: clade Ia and Ib. Current reports suggest that clade II mpox is less severe than clade Ia.

Clade II is also divided into 2 subclades: clade IIa and clade IIb.

All monkeypox cases reported in Canada have been caused by clade IIb monkeypox virus. Cases continue to be detected and reported across Canada. Between January 1 and August 20, 2024, 180 cases were reported (178 confirmed and 2 probable). So far no cases of clade I have been identified in Canada.

‍TIPS TO CONTROL & PREVENT THE SPREAD

There is no cure for monkeypox, so prevention is your best defence. Use a Health Canada registered hospital grade disinfectant that has an emerging pathogen claim such as Vital Oxide.

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Sources: https://www.who.int/news/item/14-08-2024-who-director-general-declares-mpox-outbreak-a-public-health-emergency-of-international-concern

https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/mpox/outbreak-update.html#a1

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