What is Mpox?
Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is a viral infection caused by the mpox virus, a member of the same virus family as smallpox.
Mpox usually spreads through close physical contact with an infected person. This can include sexual contact and other skin-to-skin contact. Transmission occurs most efficiently during the symptomatic stage of the illness. Occasionally, it can be contracted from contaminated materials like bedding, clothing, or surfaces.
There are different genetic types (clades) of the virus. Some forms, particularly those circulating in parts of Central and West Africa, can cause more severe illness than others.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), since 2022 there has been a global outbreak of mpox, with over 100,000 confirmed cases and more than 200 deaths reported across multiple countries, highlighting its capacity for international spread beyond traditional endemic regions.
FAQs
Where is mpox transmission more likely?
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Mpox is found in multiple regions worldwide, but it is endemic in parts of Central and West Africa, where it has been present for decades. Countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo and surrounding regions report ongoing transmission.
Outside these areas, mpox cases have been identified internationally through close contact networks and travel-related infection, particularly during the global outbreak that began in 2022.
For Australian travellers, the main risk is close contact with infected individuals, particularly in high-prevalence areas.
How does mpox spread, and what situations increase risk while travelling?
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Mpox spreads mainly through close physical contact with an infectious person or occasionally through contaminated materials. This includes sexual contact and other skin-to-skin contact.
Risk increases for travellers with multiple sexual partners and in settings where close personal contact is more likely, such as crowded living conditions. Casual contact in public spaces, such as walking past someone or brief interactions, is considered very low risk.
Is there a vaccine for mpox, and who should consider it before travel?
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Yes, a vaccine is available in Australia for mpox prevention. In the setting of travel, it is recommended for anyone who may have sex with a new partner in a high risk country. The vaccine is also recommended for healthcare workers in particular situations. A travel doctor can advise whether vaccination is appropriate based on your itinerary and individual risk profile.
What should I do if I develop symptoms during or after travel?
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If you develop symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, or an unexplained rash or skin lesions during or after travel, you should seek medical assessment promptly. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about your recent travel history and any potential close contacts, as this helps guide testing and infection control.
Early assessment is important because mpox can resemble other infections, including chickenpox, herpes, or bacterial skin conditions, and laboratory testing is needed for confirmation.
What to Know
Mpox symptoms
A characteristic feature is the development of a rash or skin lesions, which may appear on the hands, feet, genital area, face or other parts of the body. These lesions often progress through stages, starting as flat spots, then becoming raised, fluid-filled, and eventually forming scabs before healing. Other symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and sore throat.
Symptoms usually begin between 3 and 21 days after exposure, and illness can last two to four weeks in most cases. Some individuals may experience significant discomfort, particularly if lesions are in sensitive areas.
Mpox diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis of mpox is confirmed through laboratory testing, usually using PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests on swabs taken from skin lesions. This testing detects viral genetic material and helps distinguish mpox from other similar conditions such as herpes, chickenpox, or bacterial skin infections.
Management is primarily supportive and may include pain relief, fever management, skin care to reduce discomfort, and prevention of secondary bacterial infection. In more severe cases, or in people at higher risk (such as those with weakened immune systems), antiviral medications may be considered under specialist guidance.
Most people recover within a few weeks, although symptoms can be painful and may require ongoing care during the illness.
Mpox prevention
Prevention focuses on reducing close-contact exposure. Travellers are advised to avoid close physical contact with individuals who have symptoms consistent with mpox, including rashes or unexplained skin lesions.
Where relevant, safer sexual health practices, including reducing multiple or unknown partners and using barrier protection, may reduce risk, although these measures do not fully prevent transmission.
Good hand hygiene is important after any contact with people or shared surfaces. Travellers should also avoid sharing bedding, towels, or personal items in environments where exposure risk may be higher.
For those at increased risk, vaccination before travel may be recommended, ideally well in advance of departure where possible. Australian health recommendations support vaccination for anyone who may have sex with a new partner in a high risk country and for some healthcare workers.