Toronto public health officials are advising eligible residents to get the mpox vaccine following the confirmation of a new variant in the city and province. Two travel-related cases of mpox clade Ib have been confirmed. This strain has been linked to outbreaks in Central and Eastern Africa and internationally. Toronto has primarily seen the IIb strain since 2022. Both strains can cause painful skin lesions, fever, and flu-like symptoms. The mpox vaccine, available free of charge, is recommended in two doses for optimal protection. Toronto recorded 155 mpox cases in 2025, with a higher concentration in the downtown core.
