Mpox cases detected in New South Wales, prompting vaccination alert – 7NEWS

Three mpox cases (formerly known as monkeypox) have been detected in New South Wales, prompting health authorities to encourage vaccination.

NSW Health said the three cases were confirmed this week and are linked to outbreaks in South Australia and Victoria.

A total of 72 mpox cases have been identified NSW in 2022.

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Mpox can spread through contact with contaminated items or surfaces, as well as prolonged or intimate skin-to-skin contact.

Symptoms of mpox include a rash, fever, sore throat, headache, tiredness, muscle aches and swollen lymph nodes.

The rash may appear as vesicles, pustules or ulcers initially around the genitals, anus or buttock.

Mpox is endemic to a few African countries. In May 2022, a global outbreak began with over 97,000 cases reported, mainly affecting gay or bisexual men.

NSW Health executive director of health protection, Dr Jeremy McAnulty urged gay and bisexual men to be vigilant for symptoms and receive the free vaccine.

Mpox vaccine is recommended for all sexually active men who have sex with men, so get a vaccine if you havent already been vaccinated, he said.

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 first.

Patients are considered contagious until rash lesions have crusted, scabs have fallen off and a fresh layer of skin has formed underneath.

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Mpox cases detected in New South Wales, prompting vaccination alert - 7NEWS