With mpox infections rising in Chicago, health officials urge vaccination
September 10, 2025
Chicago’s recent summer spike in mpox cases is a clear reminder that vigilance and vaccination remain essential. With 83 percent of this year’s cases reported since June and nearly half among unvaccinated individuals, public health officials are emphasizing prevention. Festivals and large gatherings have been linked to transmission, especially among gay, bisexual, and same-gender-loving men with multiple or anonymous partners. Vaccination is free and effective, yet uptake lags. Public health leaders urge residents to complete the two-dose series, remain alert to symptoms, and seek testing quickly. Community protection requires both personal responsibility and sustained public health engagement.
Mpox has resurfaced in Chicago, with public health officials sounding the alarm after a sharp summer increase in cases. Since January 1, the city has recorded 71 infections, and 83 percent of these occurred since June. This spike surpasses summer totals for both 2023 and 2024, with nearly half of the new cases among unvaccinated individuals.
City officials have identified common links among recent patients, including attendance at festivals like Pride and reports of anonymous sexual encounters. While anyone can contract mpox through close contact, data continue to show disproportionate impact within networks of gay, bisexual, and same-gender-loving men. Risk is especially high for those with multiple or anonymous partners, and people living with HIV remain particularly vulnerable.
The mpox virus causes painful rashes and flu-like symptoms and spreads through close contact, shared bedding or clothing, and respiratory droplets. Severe cases can require hospitalization, although none of Chicago’s recent patients have died and only one required hospital care.
The city stresses that vaccination remains the best defense. Two doses of the vaccine provide 75 to 86 percent protection, yet too many eligible residents remain unvaccinated. Vaccines are free and available at multiple sexual health and immunization clinics across Chicago.
Health officials also encourage those experiencing symptoms to isolate, cover lesions, wash hands frequently, and seek testing. For those without providers, the HIV and STI Resource Hub offers direct support through its hotline.
The message is urgent but straightforward: complete vaccination, remain alert for symptoms, and practice safer behavior during large gatherings. No vaccine offers absolute protection, but widespread immunization and timely care can curb transmission. Chicago’s experience shows how quickly mpox can resurge and why prevention, responsibility, and community solidarity remain critical tools in the fight.