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Mpox infections climb again in Chicago area, health officials say

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, November 8th 2025 at 20:16 GMT by FOX 32
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MPox Cases Rise Again in the Chicago Area, Health Officials Urge Caution

A recent uptick in confirmed mpox (monkeypox) infections has prompted the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) to issue a new alert to residents, citing an increasing number of cases in the city and the surrounding suburbs. The news, which appeared on the Fox32 Chicago news outlet, highlights a surge in infections that most commonly affect men who have sex with men (MSM), the same demographic that has seen the majority of mpox cases nationwide.

Current Numbers and Trends

According to CDPH data released in the article, the Chicago area now reports more than 90 confirmed mpox cases—an increase from the roughly 60 cases reported in the last two weeks. The city’s Public Health Institute (PHI) has identified that 85 percent of these cases involve MSM, echoing the national pattern in which the virus remains primarily spread within this community. The rise in infections is attributed in part to the gradual easing of public health restrictions and increased social mixing in the post‑pandemic period.

Vaccination Efforts and Availability

CDPH has accelerated its vaccine rollout, offering the first‑generation smallpox vaccine (Jynneos/Imvamune) free of charge to people who are at high risk of exposure. Vaccines are available at local health clinics, including the Chicago Health Center in the Near West Side and the Community Care Alliance in the West Loop. The agency urges anyone who believes they may have been exposed to mpox to seek vaccination within 4 days of exposure for optimal effectiveness.

The article also notes that the vaccine is currently administered via a two‑dose schedule, with the second dose required within 28 days of the first. CDPH has set up an online portal where residents can schedule appointments, check eligibility, and receive reminders for their second dose. Those who receive the vaccine are advised to monitor for mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site, low‑grade fever, or fatigue, which typically resolve within a few days.

Clinical Guidance and Symptoms

In a statement, CDPH officials emphasize that mpox is still relatively uncommon compared to other infectious diseases in Chicago, but it remains a serious concern due to its potential for rapid spread. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and may include a rash—often beginning on the face and spreading to the body—fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and general fatigue. The article stresses that early identification and isolation can help prevent further transmission.

Residents are advised to seek medical care promptly if they develop a rash or other symptoms consistent with mpox, especially if they belong to high‑risk groups. CDPH recommends that healthcare providers conduct a thorough history of sexual contacts, recent travel, and possible exposure to animals that may carry the virus. The agency also underscores the importance of providing patients with clear instructions on how to protect contacts and avoid spread in households.

Public Health Recommendations

Beyond vaccination, the Chicago Department of Public Health is encouraging the community to adopt a series of precautionary measures:

1. Avoid close contact with anyone who has a rash or flu‑like symptoms.
2. Practice meticulous hand hygiene—wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol‑based sanitizer.
3. Disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with bodily fluids, especially in shared spaces such as gyms or community centers.
4. Use barrier protection during sexual activity and consider reducing the number of sexual partners.
5. Seek immediate testing if any symptoms arise, and report any confirmed cases to the CDPH.

The agency also highlights that mpox is not a new virus. It was first identified in monkeys in the 1950s and has since emerged as a zoonotic pathogen that can be transmitted between humans, primarily through close skin‑to‑skin contact. The CDC’s updated guidance, referenced in the article, stresses that mpox is still not widespread in Chicago, but vigilance is required.

Additional Resources

The Fox32 article links to the official CDC mpox page, which offers detailed information about symptom recognition, treatment protocols, and preventive measures. The CDC notes that antiviral medications such as tecovirimat are available for severe cases and that patients should be managed in a hospital setting if they exhibit high fever, respiratory distress, or widespread lesions.

CDPH’s website provides a list of vaccination sites, contact tracing resources, and an FAQ section addressing common concerns about the disease. Public health officials also recommend that individuals stay informed through reliable sources such as the Chicago Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Community Response and Future Outlook

While the surge in mpox cases has prompted concern among Chicago residents, public health experts maintain that the risk of widespread community transmission remains low if recommended measures are followed. The CDPH continues to monitor the situation closely and will issue further updates as new data emerges.

In conclusion, the recent rise in mpox infections in the Chicago area underscores the importance of staying alert, getting vaccinated if eligible, and promptly seeking medical care if symptoms appear. By combining vaccination, protective practices, and community vigilance, health officials believe that Chicago can manage the current mpox threat while preventing a larger outbreak.