“People who develop symptoms of monkeypox should self-isolate, wear a mask and contact their GP or a sexual health clinic, who can advise about testing for monkeypox,” he said. to say.
Monkeypox is a rare viral infection that is endemic to central or western Africa and was first identified in humans in 1970, but since May there has been a global increase in reported cases.
Symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle and joint pain, and enlarged lymph nodes, before a chickenpox-like rash appears, usually on the face, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet.
The highest cases are being reported in European countries, the United Kingdom and North America, but it is also spreading to other parts of the world.
On May 20, monkeypox reached Australia for the first time, with two travelers returning from Europe diagnosed.
On July 23, the World Health Organization declared the monkeypox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern.
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Since then, states in eastern Australia have recorded 58 cases, with most people recovering within two to four weeks.
In New South Wales, where 33 cases have been identified, a roll-out of a vaccine aimed at those most at risk of contracting the virus will begin on Monday.
Babies or immunosuppressed people may be at higher risk of more serious illnesses.
Anyone who is concerned that they may be infected with the monkeypox virus is advised to see a sexual health clinic or their GP.
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