Doctors urge vaccinations amid uptick in mpox cases in Chicago area
September 22, 2025
Chicago is seeing a rise in mpox cases, sparking concern among health officials and community leaders. Since June, 83 cases have been reported, with nearly one-third appearing in the last two weeks. While numbers remain well below the city’s 2022 peak, the persistence underscores the need for vigilance. Vaccination remains the strongest defense, with data showing that fully vaccinated individuals experience milder illness. Doctors emphasize that while anyone can contract mpox, gay men and transgender women remain at higher risk. With no curative treatment available, prevention through vaccination and isolation of cases is critical to limiting further spread.
Chicago is once again contending with a rise in mpox cases, a reminder that the virus has not disappeared since its 2022 surge. That year, the city recorded nearly 150 cases per week. Today, the Department of Public Health reports 83 infections since June, with 24 emerging in just the past two weeks. Though this increase is modest compared to the earlier crisis, its persistence is troubling.
Mpox begins with flu-like symptoms before progressing to a painful, blistering rash that can last for weeks. According to Dr. Travis Gayles, CEO of Howard Brown Health, the pain caused by lesions is often the most debilitating aspect of the disease. Vaccination remains the most effective tool for protection. While infections can still occur among vaccinated individuals, evidence shows these cases are milder, with reduced severity and faster recovery. Recent data indicate that 42 percent of new cases were among those fully vaccinated, 11 percent had received one dose, and 47 percent were unvaccinated.
These figures reflect both progress and gaps in vaccination uptake. Dr. Gayles expressed cautious optimism that widespread vaccination will prevent the severe symptoms and hospitalizations seen in 2022. Yet he warns that without continued attention, Chicago could face an expanded outbreak. Although mpox can affect anyone, gay men and transgender women remain disproportionately at risk.
There is no cure for mpox, and individuals diagnosed with the disease are advised to isolate until they are no longer contagious. Public health officials are urging residents, particularly those at higher risk, to ensure they are fully vaccinated.
The current rise in cases should serve as a call to action. Vigilance, vaccination, and timely isolation are essential to preventing a resurgence of the severe and painful outbreaks experienced just three years ago.