Mpox Travel Alert: What Ottawa Travellers Should Know

# Updated Travel Alert: What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know About Mpox Outbreaks in East and Central Africa

If you’re an Ottawa resident planning travel to East or Central Africa this year, an important health advisory deserves your attention. Health officials have issued a **Level 2 alert—Practise Enhanced Health Precautions**—for travellers heading to several African nations where mpox outbreaks are currently active. This update, released February 3, 2026, affects anyone visiting Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, or Zambia.

## Understanding the Current Mpox Situation

Mpox is a viral illness that causes a distinctive rash which can be quite uncomfortable. While most individuals recover within several weeks without medical intervention, the current outbreaks involve a particular strain called clade I, which health experts believe carries a higher risk of serious complications compared to other variants.

The infection spreads primarily through direct physical contact with someone who has the virus—particularly through skin-to-skin contact with rashes or sores, exposure to respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face interactions, or contact with contaminated materials like bedding or clothing. Sexual transmission is also a significant route of spread.

## Who Should Be Most Concerned?

Ottawa travellers visiting affected countries who plan to work in healthcare settings, provide caregiving services, or stay in close quarters with local populations face elevated exposure risk. Those engaging in intimate contact with new partners during their travels should also take extra precautions.

Cases linked to international travel have already appeared outside Africa, making this a genuine concern for Canadian travellers returning home.

## Protecting Yourself Before and During Your Trip

Start by scheduling a pre-travel consultation ideally six weeks before departure—though last-minute appointments still provide valuable protection. During your visit, discuss whether you meet criteria for mpox vaccination, which requires two doses spaced four weeks apart.

If you develop symptoms resembling mpox or receive a diagnosis, postpone your departure until you’ve fully recovered.

While abroad, minimize your risk by avoiding close contact with anyone showing signs of illness, practicing safer intimate behaviours, and maintaining careful hygiene. Register with the Government of Canada’s Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive emergency notifications and support.

## Get Expert Guidance for Your African Travel Plans

Don’t leave your health to chance when travelling to affected regions. A personalized travel health assessment can identify your specific risk factors and ensure you have appropriate preventive measures in place before you depart.