The increase in monkeypox cases has triggered the highest level of global health alert by the WHO, but no cases have been confirmed in Quebec, says Dr. Luc Boileau, who claims to be “not concerned” about the situation.
• Also read: Monkeypox: WHO triggers its highest global alert level
• Also read: Monkeypox in Congo: 548 deaths since the beginning of the year, one case outside Africa
• Also read: Monkeypox cases on the rise in Toronto: authorities urge citizens to get vaccinated
“We have not yet had any cases here,” says Dr. Boileau, the national director of public health. “We don’t necessarily expect to have any immediately, but it is possible that we may have cases.”
Monkeypox, also known as mpox and “monkey pox,” is a virus originating from 16 African countries. It can be transmitted through contact with infected lesions and bodily fluids, among other means. Bisexual and gay men are particularly affected.
Its variant, which is more contagious and deadly, is spreading across the African continent, where a total of 38,465 cases have been reported, according to AFP.
One case has also been confirmed in Sweden, in Europe.
In Ontario, more than a hundred cases have been confirmed by the provincial public health.
Dr. Boileau states that his team is prepared should cases of mpox occur in Quebec.
However, African countries are not places where Quebecers frequently travel, according to the doctor. He adds that European cases could more easily reach our territory.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the disease has caused at least 548 deaths since the beginning of the year, reported AFP.
“Currently, it is frightening [for several reasons],” mentions the director.
He mentions that the mortality rate is estimated to be at 4%, which can reach 10% for children, which is “huge,” according to him.
More fear than harm, for now
However, he assures that he and his team are “not very worried.” We are also not afraid that it will spread like COVID; it is not in that way that it will be caught, it is more direct,” he explains.
Although the two diseases are viruses, they are not at all “the same thing,” Dr. Boileau clarifies. “There could be viral transformation, a significant mutation; we are not immune to something that hasn’t happened, but we are monitoring this closely,” he adds.
Photo AFP
Citizens in Quebec have already been affected by mpox since 2022. The last three reported cases were in Montreal in December 2023.
Vaccines from the federal government are available should a case be confirmed in the coming weeks.
For those who have been vaccinated for two years, the dose is still effective, assures Dr. Boileau. “It is better to have two doses for people who might be at risk,” he specifies.
In Quebec, 35,000 individuals have received a first dose. Of this number, half have been vaccinated a second time, the director mentions.
To get vaccinated for free, visit the Clic Santé website.
Watch the full interview in the video above.
Emerging Trends in the Monkeypox Situation in Quebec and Beyond
The recent spike in monkeypox cases globally has prompted the World Health Organization to issue the highest level of health alert. Despite increasing concerns, Dr. Luc Boileau, Quebec’s national director of public health, assures residents that no cases have been confirmed in the province. He emphasizes that while vigilance is necessary, there is currently no immediate cause for alarm.
Potential for Future Cases
Dr. Boileau acknowledges that while the occurrence of monkeypox in Quebec remains unlikely, the province must remain prepared for potential cases, especially considering the virus’s ongoing spread in Africa and recent reports of infections in Europe. The situation serves as a reminder that diseases can cross borders quickly in our interconnected world.
Vaccination Campaigns
An important trend to watch is the vaccination efforts against monkeypox. With approximately 35,000 Quebecers having already received their first dose, and a significant number being fully vaccinated, the province is actively preparing for a resurgence. Health authorities have vaccines on standby should cases arise. It is crucial for those at risk to consider getting vaccinated, as Dr. Boileau highlights the importance of maintaining immunity among the population.
Vulnerable Populations
The current outbreak seems to disproportionately affect bisexual and homosexual men. This demographic trend warrants a tailored public health response to ensure that information and vaccination efforts reach these communities effectively, promoting awareness and preventive measures to minimize potential outbreaks.
Public Confidence and Communication
Interestingly, Dr. Boileau’s reassurances can influence public confidence in handling the situation. A well-informed citizenry is integral to public health responses. Ongoing communication about risks, vaccination availability, and preventive practices can help alleviate fears and ensure a coordinated response should cases emerge.
Monitoring Virus Evolution
As with any infectious disease, ongoing surveillance for mutations and variants will be critical. Although Dr. Boileau expresses limited concern about the virus spreading like COVID-19, monitoring will help identify any shifts in transmissibility or severity. Public health officials must remain alert and adaptable to changing situations, emphasizing a proactive rather than reactive approach.
As Quebec navigates this complex health landscape, the balance between preparedness and public reassurance will be key. The evolving nature of monkeypox highlights the need for vigilance, adaptive health communication, and targeted vaccination efforts to manage and mitigate potential future outbreaks.