Ask the Pharmacist

Q: I am hearing more news about Mpox lately. What can you tell me about it and should I be concerned?

A: In recent months, there has been growing concern about the resurgence of Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, as cases continue to emerge in various parts of the world. This infection, which was once considered rare and primarily limited to certain regions, is now becoming a global health issue.

Mpox has been around for decades as the Democratic Republic of Congo has been dealing with it all the while. However, due to the skyrocketing increase in cases and the spread to other neighbouring countries, Africa has declared it a health emergency as it recorded about 15,000 cases this year, thus far, and includes infants as young as two weeks old.

As with many contagious diseases, our ease of travel for both business and pleasure has led to a more global spread which explains the rising cases elsewhere in the world, including Canada. Toronto cited 93 confirmed cases at the end of July, 2024, compared to 21 cases at the end of July, 2023. Therefore, it is important to understand who is most at risk, where Mpox is currently active, what symptoms to look out for, and how to protect ourselves.

Mpox is a viral infection caused by the Mpox virus, which belongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox. Those of a certain age may remember the smallpox vaccine and the distinctive mark it left on the upper arm. Recall that the worldwide smallpox vaccine campaign effectively eradicated the smallpox virus.

For most people, Mpox is a mild disease that causes pox lesions that can be pus-filled and leave lifelong scars. As with many diseases, however, there are reports of serious illness and death associated with the Mpox virus.

Though most cases of Mpox have spread among people who have had close sexual contact with an infected person (in particular gay, bisexual and other men), it can also be spread by any skin-to-skin contact, such as with lesions or scabs. It is also thought to be airborne and possibly spread through contact with contaminated clothing and cooking utensils.

Anyone can get Mpox, but there are certain groups who are at higher risk:

Close contacts of infected individuals: Those who have direct physical contact with an infected person, especially skin-to-skin contact, are at the highest risk. This includes household members, intimate partners, and health-care workers without proper protective equipment.

Men who have sex with men (MSM): Recent outbreaks have shown a higher incidence among MSM, particularly those with multiple sexual partners. However, it’s important to note that Mpox is not limited to this group and can affect anyone as mentioned above.

Immuno-compromised individuals: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients, or those on immuno-suppressive medications, are more vulnerable to severe illness.

Children and pregnant women: Though this subset of people is less commonly affected, children and pregnant women can experience more severe symptoms if infected.

Mpox symptoms usually appear seven to 10 days after exposure but can range from three to 21 days after being exposed. The following are symptoms of Mpox to be on the lookout for:
 

• Rash
  • Can be anywhere on the body, such as face and mouth, arms and legs, hands and feet, anus, rectum and genitals
  • The rash goes through several stages, starting as flat spots, then raised bumps, and eventually, turning into fluid-filled blisters and scabs; the lesions can be quite painful
  • Usually lasts between two to four weeks before it finally forms a scab that will later fall off
  • Some may not notice a rash outwardly but may complain of a sore throat and/or rectal pain
• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Joint/back pain
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion

Preventing the spread of Mpox requires a combination of personal precautions and public health measures. Here are some key steps you can take:

Avoid close contact with infected individuals: If you know someone has Mpox, avoid direct skin-to-skin contact. Refrain from touching their rash, scabs, or any objects they have used.

Practise good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after contact with potentially contaminated surfaces.

Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): If you are caring for those with Mpox, wear gloves and a mask when handling their laundry, cleaning their space, or providing care.

Get vaccinated if eligible: Imvamune vaccine has been approved in Canada to protect against smallpox as well as Mpox, among other orthopoxvirus-related diseases. It is given in two doses, 28 days apart, and is available for those individuals who are at a higher risk of acquiring Mpox such as those likely to be exposed or after a potential exposure. Check with your health-care provider or local health unit about vaccine availability, especially if you are at higher risk.

Practise safe sex: Since Mpox can spread through close physical contact, including intimate contact, practising safe sex by using condoms and reducing the number of sexual partners can lower your risk.

Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest information from reliable health sources to understand the current status of Mpox in your area and any specific advice issued by public health authorities.

In summary, Mpox cases have been reported in many areas worldwide, so it is especially important to be diligent and consult reliable sources before you plan to travel. If you do develop symptoms consistent with Mpox, such as a new unexplained rash, especially if you have had close contact with a known or suspected case, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis and care can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others.

For more information about this or any other health-related questions, contact the pharmacists at Gordon Pharmasave, Your Health and Wellness Destination. Also check the website at www.gordon-pharmasave.com/ and the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/GordonPharmasave/