Mpox

What is mpox?

Human mpox virus is a disease related to smallpox but that causes a milder illness. Mpox infection, transmitted from animals to humans, was first identified in 1970 in rural villages of Central and West Africa as smallpox disappeared and smallpox vaccination programs were stopped. Increasing cases of mpox have been recently reported in more than 80 countries worldwide, including Canada.

Is monkey pox transmissible by blood or blood products?

As of September 2024, no transfusion transmission of Mpox has been reported.

What about medicine made from plasma? Is mpox transmissible through plasma protein products?

Mpox is not transmissible through plasma protein products, which are pharmaceutical therapies made from plasma — a component of blood. In general, plasma protein products are extremely safe because of the added steps in the manufacturing process that inactivate or remove viruses, including mpox.  

Can I donate if I have been vaccinated for mpox?

There is no waiting period if you have been vaccinated for mpox.

Can I donate if I have had contact with someone who has had mpox?

If you have had contact with someone who has had mpox and don’t get sick or have symptoms, you should wait 42 days from last contact with the infected person before donating blood or plasma. Contact is defined as contact with skin or bodily fluids (e.g., sexual contact), with a contaminated object (e.g., clothing) or face to face contact without a mask for more than 3 hours (e.g., living in the same household).

Can I donate if I have had mpox?

If you have had mpox, you should wait 42 days from the start of symptoms before donating blood or plasma.  

Should I contact Canadian Blood Services if I develop a case of mpox, or a contact of a case of mpox?

Yes, please contact Canadian Blood Services if you have donated and then find out you either have a case of mpox or were in contact with someone who has had mpox. 

Where can I get more information?

More information on mpox can be found at https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/mpox.html.