In Melbourne’s South East, mpox transmission continues to be high. This means that those in the community with a greater chance of exposure to mpox, who have not yet been vaccinated, are at higher risk of contracting the disease and severe illness.
Mpox is a disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It’s mostly spread through prolonged physical or intimate (skin-to-skin) contact with someone who has mpox. Symptoms often resemble sexually transmitted infections and can include a rash that can be painful and affect any part of the body.
For those who suffer severe illness, they may require hospitalisation and experience long-term impacts such as scarring.
Thankfully, mpox vaccinations are now easier to access with a statewide list of vaccination sites published on Department of Health’s Better Health Channel.
The mpox vaccine is strongly recommended and available for free for people at high risk of exposure to mpox.
Professor Rhonda Stuart, Director of the South East Public Health Unit, said while vaccine fatigue was a factor following the pandemic – two mpox vaccinations 28 days apart offered significant protection and peace of mind.
“Vaccination is an important preventative measure and can decrease the risk of contracting disease and its severity,” said Professor Stuart.
For those who do develop symptoms, even if vaccinated, it’s important to visit a doctor and refrain from prolonged contact with others until well.
For general practitioners, they should consider an mpox diagnosis for those at risk who present with compatible symptoms or are diagnosed with other sexually transmitted infections.