Recent Chicago mpox outbreak now contained, officials say
November 26, 2025
Chicago’s successful containment of its mpox outbreak shows what rapid, community-focused public health action can accomplish. After a 374% rise in cases since June and clear concentration in LGBTQ+ networks, the city activated an incident command structure, expanded vaccination access, and intensified outreach. With cases now averaging one or fewer per day, the immediate threat is low — but complacency would be premature. Most infections occurred among unvaccinated individuals, and nearly a quarter involved people living with HIV. Continued vigilance, full two-dose vaccination, and accessible clinics remain essential to preventing a resurgence and protecting Chicago’s most impacted communities.
Chicago’s announcement that its recent mpox outbreak has been contained is a notable public health achievement — but one that underscores how fragile progress can be when a virus continues to circulate in under-vaccinated networks. After identifying 166 new cases between June and late November — a striking 374% increase — the Chicago Department of Public Health quickly activated an incident command structure, ramped up epidemiologic investigations, and expanded targeted vaccination efforts across LGBTQ+ community spaces. The result has been a steep decline: only two cases have been reported since November 18, and new infections have averaged one or fewer per day for weeks.
This decline is encouraging, yet it highlights a familiar pattern. The majority of Chicago’s cases occurred among people who had not completed the mpox vaccine series, and nearly one-quarter involved individuals living with HIV, who face greater risk for severe disease. Eight hospitalizations during the outbreak period reinforce that mpox remains clinically significant even when overall transmission is low.
Containing this outbreak required precisely the kind of community-specific response that proved effective in 2022: rapid case investigation, culturally competent outreach, and vaccine access delivered directly where people at highest risk live, gather, and socialize. Chicago’s decision to operate clinics not only in public health centers but also in LGBTQ+ venues — from Steamworks and Meeting House Tavern to Touche Bar — reflects an evidence-based understanding that vaccination succeeds when it meets people where they are.
Still, “contained” does not mean “resolved.” Mpox continues to circulate, and immunity gaps persist. With winter social patterns increasing indoor contact, the risk of resurgence remains real. Chicago’s experience shows that when public health systems mobilize early and maintain trust within affected communities, outbreaks can be controlled. The challenge now is sustaining that vigilance long after headlines fade.