Health authorities are reminding Victorians about mpox as infections continue to occur in the community. Victoria has recorded 52 cases since 1 August 2026, while different strains of the virus are also circulating internationally.

How mpox is spread

Mpox is an infection caused by the monkeypox virus. The virus is most commonly passed through prolonged close physical contact with an infected person. Sexual contact is an important route of transmission.

Infection can also occur through:

• Touching mpox lesions or the skin around them
• Sharing items such as towels, clothing, bedding or sex toys that have been contaminated
• Exposure to respiratory droplets from an infected person
• Contact with infected body fluids, including semen

Who should be aware of the risk?

Anyone exposed to the virus can develop mpox. In Australia, the highest levels of transmission have been seen among men who have sex with men and their sexual partners.

People with multiple or casual sexual partners may have a greater chance of exposure, particularly when sexual activity occurs at venues, events or in group settings.

Severe illness is more likely in people with weakened immune systems, children and pregnant women.

Recognising possible mpox

The illness does not look exactly the same in everyone. Possible signs include:

• Fever or chills
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Painful rash or skin lesions
• Pain around the genitals or rectum
• Pain when urinating or passing bowel movements
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea or abdominal pain

Skin lesions may first appear as spots or sores before becoming fluid-filled blisters and then scabs. They can occur on different parts of the body, including the mouth, genital area and rectum.

Signs can take as long as 21 days to appear following exposure. While most infections are mild and resolve within several weeks, serious illness can occur and may require hospital treatment.

What clinicians should do

Healthcare professionals should consider mpox when sexually active patients present with compatible symptoms. Testing should not be ruled out because of a patient's sexual orientation, vaccination history or lack of recent travel.

Vaccination reduces the risk but does not completely prevent infection, and vaccinated people may present with less typical or milder symptoms.

Patients who may have mpox should cover lesions and minimise close contact with other people while waiting for their results.

Suspected and confirmed cases must be reported to the Department of Health, with notification to the Local Public Health Unit by calling 1300 651 160 as soon as practicable and within 24 hours.

Eligible people at increased risk can receive free mpox vaccination. Clinicians should check vaccination history and provide a second dose when it is due.

Advice for the community

Anyone who develops symptoms should arrange an assessment with a GP or sexual health service. Cover skin lesions and wear a mask when attending a healthcare appointment.

Until medical advice is received, avoid close physical contact and sexual activity with other people.

People at increased risk should speak with their doctor about mpox vaccination. Two doses provide the best protection.

Other ways to reduce exposure include using condoms and other barrier protection, washing hands regularly, and cleaning sex toys before and after use. Where appropriate, exchanging contact details with sexual partners can also assist with contact tracing.

Mpox activity increases across Victoria

Source: Victorian Department of Health; Better Health Channel