Toronto Public Health (TPH) is warning of “increased” mpox activity in the city with 14 new cases confirmed since September. In a news release issued Monday, the city said that while the risk to the public remains low, the 14 confirmed cases underscore the need for vaccination for those eligible. “Recent wastewater monitoring by the Public Health Agency of Canada has also consistently detected mpox in the city, reflecting the recent rise in cases,” TPH wrote. The viral infection is spread through close contact or sexual contact with a person who has the virus, including contact with skin lesions, blisters, body fluids or respiratory secretions. TPH said that gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men continue to be the most affected group. “Mpox is making a comeback,” Gilles Charette, the director of the Gay Men’s Sexual Health Alliance, said in a statement. “Now is a good time to check in with yourself and your friends about protection against the virus. Gay, bisexual and queer men have already shown how effectively our communities can respond when we have clear, trusted information and easy access to vaccination. If you’re eligible, get your first dose, and if you started the series but haven’t received your second, now is the time to complete it.” Symptoms include rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. There is no specific treatment to prevent mpox infection. In an email to CTV News, a TPH spokesperson said that the city has seen 41 confirmed cases so far this year. For comparison, 118 cases were confirmed during the same period in 2025. A total of 158 cases were reported that year. “Mpox continues to circulate in Toronto, and we are currently seeing a rise in infections. Vaccination is the best way eligible residents can protect themselves. If you haven’t received your first dose or still need your second, please book an appointment at a TPH Sexual Health Clinic or visit your 2SLGBTQ+ health-care service provider,” Dr. Michelle Murti, Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health, said in a statement. As a result, TPH is reminding eligible residents to check their vacation status and start or complete their two-dose mpox vaccine series. The vaccine is free and available, even for those without an Ontario health card. To book an appointment to get the vaccine, click here.
