Seven more cases of mpox recorded in the past few weeks have prompted an ACT Health alert urging Canberrans to learn more about the virus.
The case toll has increased to nine from the two cases of mpox the directorate had recorded as of July 13.
Officials wanted people to learn about prevention strategies, symptoms and risk factors of mpox while emphasising the importance of being vaccinated against the illness.
"People are at highest risk following skin to skin contact with someone who has mpox and has a rash or sores," ACT Health's media statement read.
Mpox was first reported in Australia in May 2022 and has seen a rise in infections in other states and territories as well.
The virus is believed to spread through close contact with skin lesions, body fluids, respiratory droplets or contaminated objects such as clothes.
Mpox develops as a mild illness with symptoms similar to the flu including fever, headaches or swelling of lymph nodes. A face rash is said to develop following a fever, which could spread to other parts of the body.
"Since May 2022, there has been a global increase in mpox cases reported from multiple countries where the virus is not usually seen," the ACT Health statement added.
"Several Australian jurisdictions have observed increased case numbers in recent months, including local transmission."
The directorate said it was actively monitoring the local and national mpox situation. It was also working with stakeholders to increase awareness in the community about its prevention.
"We also work closely with other jurisdictions to monitor the epidemiological situation," its statement said.
"In the ACT we have a strong network of partners, including but not limited to Canberra Health Services and Meridian, working together to deliver support and care for the small numbers of Canberrans impacted by mpox. This includes access to timely treatment and medical care for diagnosed cases."
People currently eligible to receive the mpox vaccine are:
- sexually active men (cis and trans) who are gay, bisexual or have sex with other men
- partners of the people above
- sex workers
Mpox vaccines are free to eligible people and a Medicare card is not needed.
More information about mpox, including where to get vaccinated, symptoms and prevention, is available on the ACT Health website.
"People can go to www.act.gov.au/health and search 'mpox'. Sexual health clinics, such as Canberra Sexual Health Centre and GPs can also provide individualised health advice," the directorate's statement said.
With Australian Associated Press
