Mpox in WA: Health authorities issue fresh warning over rising case numbers of nasty viral infection

A recent spike in Mpox cases in WA has sparked health authorities to issue a fresh alert to the community, with contact tracing underway to determine if the viral disease has been spread further.

Over the past seven days seven new cases of Mpox — formerly called monkey pox — were detected in the State.

It brings the year’s total to 22 cases, almost as many as all of last year in just five months.

Nineteen of the 2026 cases have been acquired locally, while three came from overseas.

While cases in the State has until now mainly been detected in men who have sex with other men, cases this year have included two heterosexual men and for the first time two cisgender women.

Communicable Disease Control director Paul Armstrong said the Health Department was working closely with affected individuals and contacts to help prevent further spread of the virus.

“Mpox is a viral infection that typically causes mild illness, including fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes or fatigue, followed by a skin rash or lesions,” Dr Armstrong said.

“It does not spread easily between people and is mainly transmitted through very close or intimate contact with an infected person.

“While anyone can contract Mpox, recent cases in Australia and internationally have occurred more commonly among sexually active gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men.”

Dr Armstrong urged those eligible to consider getting the Mpox vaccination, especially if you are travelling overseas to a country with transmission.

“The Mpox vaccine is available through sexual health clinics and participating GPs for people at higher risk of exposure,” he said.

“Two doses are recommended for optimal protection, and vaccination can reduce the risk of infection and severe disease.”

The virus can be fatal for a small group of people including young children, pregnant women, older people and immunosuppressed people.

Anyone who is concerned they may have been exposed to Mpox, or is experiencing symptoms of the infection, should call ahead before attending a healthcare facility so precautions can be arranged.

Alternatively, people can contact healthdirect for medical advice on 1800 022 222.