WA records new monkeypox case as numbers rise globally

Western Australia has recorded its first monkeypox case in more than a year after the Department of Health confirmed a recently returned traveller to the state had tested positive for the virus.

Monkeypox – now known as Mpox – cases have increased by 25 per cent globally in the past three weeks,with most infections in the Western Pacific and South-East Asia regions.

The department’s communicable disease control directorate senior medical advisor,Jelena Maticevic,said there was low risk to the public but people should be aware of the risk of the virus if travelling overseas given the growing number of cases.

“We are asking those travelling overseas to be aware of the ongoing risk of Mpox and to take measures to protect themselves against Mpox and other sexually transmitted infections,” Dr Maticevic said.

“Mpox does not spread easily among people and requires close contact with an infected person,or materials contaminated with the virus.

“People travelling overseas should practise safe sex by using condoms,and those at higher risk of Mpox – particularly men who have sex with men – should get vaccinated against Mpox prior to travel.”

The department would not release any further identifying information about the returned traveller or his movements in WA but confirmed close contacts had been alerted.

WA has recorded three Mpox cases this year and seven last year,all of which were returned international travellers.

Last month Victoria recorded two new cases of Mpox.

Maticevic said the infection usually caused mild illnesses and most people recovered within weeks,but some people could develop severe illnesses.

“The initial symptoms of the illness include fever,swollen lymph nodes,muscle and joint aches and fatigue. A rash may then develop which often starts as flat red lesions that become filled with fluid,and eventually scab over and fall off over a two-to-three-week period,” she said.

“People with symptoms of Mpox should wear a mask and see their doctor to get tested. Those with Mpox should isolate and avoid contact with other people while they are infectious.”

The department said anyone with concerns they may have been infected should consult their GP via telehealth or sexual health clinic.

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