The Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) has recorded its first locally transmitted case of monkeypox, the state’s Health Department confirmed on August 21.
Around 42 people have been found to have contracted monkeypox in NSW so far, most of them from overseas sources and two in other states.
NSW Health Executive Director of Health Protection Richard Broome said the recently diagnosed case highlights the importance of people remaining vigilant for symptoms regardless of whether they have visited high-risk environments overseas.
“Men who have sex with men who are returning from overseas should contact their GP or local sexual health clinic for a check-up when they return as symptoms of monkeypox can be mild,” Broome said.
“Symptoms usually begin seven to 14 days after exposure through skin-to-skin contact and can include fever, headache, body aches, and a rash or lesions on the genital area.”
NSW Health warns that the virus can also be spread through respiratory droplets during the initial stages of infection and contact with clothing, linen, or other contaminated items.
“It is important that people with these symptoms avoid close contact with others, including sexual activity, as condoms are not effective at preventing the transmission of monkeypox,” Broome said.
For most people, symptoms will disappear after two to four weeks. Basic painkillers may be used to reduce symptoms, and antiviral drugs may be used for severe illness.
“A small stock holding of the JYNNEOS smallpox vaccine has been retained for post-exposure prophylaxis,” the Department said in a statement on Aug. 21.
“We continue to work with our community partners to formulate a plan to rollout the additional doses of the JYNNEOS smallpox vaccine expected to be delivered in early September and October.”
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