The Public Health Agency of Canada warns travelers to be especially careful abroad due to the potential threat of contracting monkeypox.
The government has issued a second-level travel health notice to encourage people traveling abroad to take extra precautions.
The Public Health Agency says travelers may be subjected to isolation or other measures to limit the spread of the virus. He also warns that those leaving the country may have limited access to appropriate care if they become ill and may face delays in returning home.
He advised travelers to consult a health professional or visit a health clinic for travel at least six weeks before the trip, and said they could reduce the risk of contracting the virus by being “especially vigilant” at any large parties or gatherings during on a trip.
Anyone with symptoms or a diagnosis of monkeypox should postpone their trip and isolate themselves, the agency said.
The monkeypox virus, known to cause treacherous skin lesions, usually enters human populations when someone touches or eats infected wildlife. From there, it can be spread through close contact, including airborne droplets, skin-to-skin contact, or if someone touches contaminated surfaces such as clothing or bedding.
Outbreaks of monkeypox are rare outside of West and Central Africa, but cases have surfaced around the world in recent weeks.
At least 100 cases have been confirmed in Canada.
The Quebec Ministry of Health said on Tuesday that there were 90 confirmed cases in the province. Toronto Public Health confirmed eight positive cases, with 17 others under investigation.
Alberta has two confirmed cases, and British Columbia has one confirmed case.
The government’s travel notification covers 27 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Mexico, Spain and Germany.
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