Monkeypox (MPX)
We are monitoring the unfolding situation in Australia concerning MPX. We will update this alert with the latest medical advice and official reports.
Current status
As at 15 June 2022:
- There are 8 confirmed cases of MPX in Australia. This includes 3 in Victoria and 5 in New South Wales.
Why there is an alert
MPX had not been identified in Australia before May 2022.
Although MPX is endemic to parts of Africa, the recent outbreak has been detected in the UK, Europe, northern America and the Middle East and other areas that are not endemic for MPX.
On 1 June 2022, MPX became a nationally notifiable disease for 6 months. During this time a review will determine whether to list the virus permanently.
What we are doing
National expert groups have convened to develop MPX treatment and vaccine guidelines. National advice and guidance to public health units to respond to MPX is also being developed.
Public health messaging regarding MPX is focused on making the public and health professionals aware of the symptoms and communicating with people most at risk to make sure they seek medical advice if necessary.
We are working closely with our state and territory counterparts to ensure a swift and coordinated response.
Find out more
Visit our monkeypox page and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn for updates.