Status: Active
Date issued: 04 Jul 2024
Issued to: Health professionals and the Victorian community
There is an increasing risk of local transmission of mpox in Victoria, mostly impacting gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men. Mpox continues to spread in many countries and the risk linked to international travel is ongoing. People with symptoms of mpox should seek medical care and testing.
Eligible people should get vaccinated against mpox.
While mpox infection can still occur following vaccination, it reduces the risk of transmission and disease severity. Two doses of mpox vaccine are required for optimal protection. If you have not had a second dose, get it now.
Free mpox vaccine is widely available for eligible people through sexual health clinics, hospitals, general practitioners, Aboriginal health services, councils and pharmacies.
Clinicians should offer mpox vaccination to all eligible people at risk of infection.
Clinicians should test for mpox in all patients presenting with compatible symptoms, in particular those presenting with a genital rash, lesions, or proctitis.
Cases of mpox can occur in fully vaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals, and clinicians should be alert to the possibility of atypical or attenuated presentations.
Any suspected or confirmed mpox case must be urgently notified to the Department of Health on 1300 651 160.
