Mpox
Previously known as monkeypox. Learn more about mpox and how to get the vaccine.
Human monkeypox is now called mpox, based on the World Health Organization’s recommendation.
Mpox is a viral illness that causes fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, body aches and tiredness, followed by a rash over a person’s body. It’s usually spread by very close contact with someone who has the virus.
Learn about:
- Symptoms, getting tested, what to do if you’re infected or were exposed.
- How it spreads, prevention, and risks.
- How Canada is monitoring mpox.
Get the vaccine
Eligible individuals can call Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 for support to get the vaccine.
Find additional clinics in the Greater Toronto Area.
Imvamune vaccine is approved in Canada for protection against mpox. Imvamune is safe to receive and is effective at protecting against mpox. The vaccine can be used for protection before a possible exposure to the virus (pre-exposure vaccination) or after being exposed (post-exposure vaccination).
There’s no cost to receive the vaccine.
Learn more about vaccine safety, effectiveness and possible side effects.
In Ontario, anyone 18 years or older that is eligible for pre-exposure or post-exposure vaccination will be offered 2 doses of the vaccine at no cost. The first and second doses should be given at least 28 days apart. Both doses are needed for full protection.
If you’re under 18 years and are at high risk, call Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 to check if you are eligible.
If you've tested positive for mpox recently, you are not recommended to receive the vaccine as you may have developed immunity. This may change as new information becomes available.
Eligible groups can get the vaccine to protect against mpox before a possible exposure to the virus (pre-exposure vaccination) or after being exposed (post-exposure vaccination).
Pre-exposure vaccination
Pre-exposure vaccination is available for:
Two-spirit, non-binary, transgender, cisgender, intersex, or gender-queer individuals who self-identify or have sexual partners who self-identify as belonging to the gay, bisexual, pansexual and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM) community and at least 1 of the following:
- Had a confirmed sexually transmitted infection in the past year.
- Have or are planning to have 2 or more sexual partners.
- Are in a relationship where at least 1 of the partners may have other sexual partners.
- Attended a bath house, sex club or similar place for sexual contact recently or may be planning to, or work or volunteer in these settings.
- Had anonymous sex (e.g., using hookup apps) recently, or may be planning to.
- Are a sexual contact of an individual who engages in sex work.
As well as individuals who self-identify as engaging in sex work or are planning to, regardless of self-identified sex or gender.
If you’re immunocompromised or pregnant, but don’t meet the pre-exposure vaccination eligibility, you may still be eligible for the vaccine if you live with or are a sexual contact of anyone that meets the eligibility. You should contact your health care provider or Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 to discuss getting the vaccine as you may be at higher risk for severe illness from mpox.
Post-exposure vaccination
Post-exposure vaccination is available for individuals who have been in close contact with someone with mpox. Contact Peel Public Health at 905-799-7700 or your health care provider to find out if you are eligible.
