Mpox

Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is a rare infectious disease caused by the mpox virus. Cases of mpox emerged from outbreaks occurring in parts of Central and West Africa and was later discovered in many countries around the world, including Canada. The risk of infection is low for the general population.

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Mpox Vaccination in York Region

York Region offers free mpox vaccine (Imvamune®) appointments for eligible individuals who may be at higher risk of infection.

Imvamune® is a two-dose vaccine, with at least 28 days between the first and second dose. Individuals should receive both doses of Imvamune ® to be best protected.

Eligible individuals can call 1-800-361-5653 to book an appointment.

Review the Frequently Asked Questions section for more information about mpox vaccination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible to get vaccinated before I travel?

Imvamune® vaccine is not a routine travel immunization. You may get vaccinated if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Should I be worried about mpox?

Mpox viruses are classified into two main clades (clade I and clade II), with four recognized sub‑clades: clade Ia, clade Ib, clade IIa and clade IIb. The recently identified clade 1b strain is less severe than clade 1a and the risk of mpox infection still remains low for the general population. The spread of disease can be prevented by avoiding close contact with people who are visibly sick, have a rash, or have been exposed to mpox.

Can I get the vaccine if I have symptoms?

No. The Imvamune® vaccine is not a form of treatment and should not be given if you have any signs or symptoms of infection. Anyone who experiences symptoms compatible with mpox should be assessed by a health care provider.

Can I get the vaccine if I recently had mpox?

No. At this time, individuals who have had a confirmed case of mpox are not recommended to receive the mpox vaccine.

Am I able to get vaccinated if I had the smallpox vaccine before?

Individuals eligible for Imvamune® as pre- or post-exposure vaccination and who have previously received smallpox vaccination are still recommended to receive a two-dose series of Imvamune®.

Do I require a medical note from a health care provider to get vaccinated?

Please speak to your health care provider and bring a medical note (or for the last group, proof of prescription) to the vaccine clinic if you are:

  • Severely immunocompromised
  • Pregnant
  • Under the age of 18
  • Immunocompromised and live with someone or have a sexual partner who is in one of the eligible groups for pre-exposure vaccination – you can receive the vaccine with proof of your condition or medication (bring either a note from your health care provider, a copy of your prescription or your medication bottle)

Can you get Imvamune® vaccine at the same time as other vaccines? 

Yes, Imvamune® can be given concurrently (i.e., same day) or at any time before or after other live or non-live vaccines.

Mpox vaccine appointments

Each appointment is provided one-to-one in a private room.

Appointments for mpox vaccination are available by visiting a York Region Public Health Sexual Health Clinic. To book a private appointment, please call 1-800-361-5653 and a Public Health Nurse will assist you over the phone. For general information about the York Region sexual health clinics and clinic locations please visit Sexual Health Clinics.

Vaccination is not currently recommended or needed if you do not meet the eligibility criteria.

For information on the mpox vaccine, see the mpox vaccine information sheet.

For more information

Speak with your primary care provider if you have any concerns about mpox. For general inquiries, you can contact Access York at 1-877-464-9675.

You may also speak with a health care provider at Scarborough Health Network to answer any questions about mpox.