Be aware of mpox symptoms as number of cases rise

NSW Health is asking the community to be aware of symptoms of mpox following a recent increase in infections, mostly impacting men who have sex with men.

There have been 93 notifcations of mpox in NSW since 1 June 2024. Before 1 June, only one case had been detected in NSW in 2024. In 2022, 56 mpox notifcations were reported in NSW, and in 2023 there were 12.

Since 2022, there has been a global outbreak of mpox, with over 97,000 reported cases in many countries outside Africa, including Australia.

NSW Health Executive Director of Health Protection, Dr Jeremy McAnulty said there have been over 15,000 cases of mpox reported in central Africa this year, many of which are due to a new strain (clade 1b) of the virus. However, this strain has not been detected in Australia.

“With the recent increase in cases, NSW Health is asking people who may be at risk of mpox to stay on the lookout for symptoms,”

Dr McAnulty said.

“Mpox spreads through close skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact, and often starts with small pimple-like skin lesions particularly in areas that are hard to see such as the genitals, anus or buttock.

“Some people experience mild fever, headache, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes and mouth ulcers or rectal pain. Mpox can spread to others until the lesions resolve.

“People who have any symptoms of mpox, even if they have had the mpox vaccine and even if mild, should immediately contact their GP or sexual health service for an appointment.”

Mpox vaccination is recommended for those considered to be at higher risk of developing mpox, including sexually active gay and bisexual men (cis and trans) and their sexual partners, as well as sex workers and their sexual partners. The mpox vaccine is free for those considered to be at higher risk of developing mpox, and you do not need a Medicare card to receive it. To fnd clinics offering the vaccination, refer to Mpox vaccination clinics.

It is important to note two doses of vaccine are required, so anyone who has only received one dose should get a second dose at least 28 days after the frst.

While no vaccine is completely effective in preventing mpox, two doses of the vaccine can provide vital protection against severe illness caused by the virus.

For further support, you can also call:

• The Sexual Health Infolink: 1800 451 624 for vaccine booking support.

• The Translating and Interpreting Service: 13 14 50 for free help in your language. More information on mpox can be found on the NSW Health website.