A second case of monkeypox has been confirmed in Waterloo Region.
Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang, confirmed the details during a Board of Health meeting on Wednesday.
She said the case involves a man in his 30s who has a close contact outside of the region.
"The risk to the general public remains low," said Dr. Wang. "Monkeypox does not spread easily from person-to-person. It is transmitted through close, intimate contact with someone who has monkeypox and is showing symptoms."
Dr. Wang added Region of Waterloo Public Health is working with community partners to vaccinate individuals deemed high-risk for monkeypox.
"There is a limited supply of the vaccine available to persons at high-risk, as determined by provincial eligibility criteria," explained Dr. Wang.
Those who are eligible can attend vaccination clinics at 99 Regina Street and 150 Main Street, which are being held twice a week by appointment-only.
"These appointments are being taken up, and we have appointments booked over the next few weeks."
Dr. Wang also offered advice for those in the community to avoid contracting monkeypox.
"Avoiding skin-to-skin, or close face-to-face contact, with anyone who has symptoms. Wearing a mask if you are in close contact with someone with symptoms, and practicing safer sex."
Dr. Wang said she will start providing monthly updates on the local monkeypox situation, as we should expect to see more cases detected.
The first case of monkeypox was confirmed in Waterloo Region in early August.
