N.S. reports new mpox case, ‘very low’ risk to general public

For the first time in months, Nova Scotia has reported a new confirmed case of mpox in the Halifax region. Officials say there is 'very low' risk to the general public.

For the first time in months, Nova Scotia has reported a new confirmed case of mpox in the Halifax region.

“The person appears to have contracted the illness while travelling outside the province. Symptoms appeared after the person’s return to Nova Scotia,” the province said in a release.

“Public Health has been following this case closely and has identified only one contact.”

The release said the risk to the general public is “very low,” and those at the highest risk of contracting mpox are those who have been in close or intimate contact with someone who has an active infection.

“I want to encourage people who are at highest risk, who haven’t yet been vaccinated, to go get vaccinated, and to complete your two-dose series,” said Dr. Jesse Kancir, the province’s lead medical officer of health for mpox, in the release.

“While we have not seen many cases of mpox here in Nova Scotia, there is a risk of a resurgence in Canada with increased summer travels and large gatherings.”

Nova Scotia has only had one other case of mpox reported in August 2022. That case was also contracted while outside of the province.

Imvamune, the vaccine that helps prevent mpox infection, can be requested from physicians, community pharmacy primary care clinics, and some Public Health offices.