NSW records first local transmission of monkeypox

New South Wales has the first locally acquired case of monkeypoxhealth authorities have confirmed.

To date, 42 people across the state have been infected with the virus. Most of them contracted it abroad.

Two of the NSW cases were infected in other parts of Australia.

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Yesterday’s announcement by NSW Health is a first for NSW and comes more than a week after the launch of the JYNNEOS smallpox vaccination program for those most at risk of monkeypox.

Community members have been told to protect themselves by health officials.

“NSW Health urges the community, particularly gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), to remain vigilant for symptoms of monkeypox following local transmission of the virus in NSW,” said NSW Health.

The virus is transmitted from skin to skin, but contact must be prolonged.

Symptoms usually appear seven to 14 days after skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.

They may include rashes or sores on the genital area, headache, body aches, and fever.

NSW Health warns that transmission is also possible through respiratory droplets during the initial period and through contact with contaminated clothing, linens or other items.

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Monkeypox virus can be spread through contact with bodily fluids, wounds, or objects such as clothing and bedding that are contaminated with the virus. It can also spread from person to person through respiratory droplets, usually in close surroundings. (PA)

“It is important that people with these symptoms avoid close contact with others,” said Richard Broome, executive director of health protection at NSW Health.

“Including sexual activity, as condoms are not effective in preventing transmission of monkeypox.”

For most people, symptoms stop after two to four weeks.

Basic painkillers can be used to reduce symptoms, and antivirals can be used in severe cases.

Last week, Victorian authorities reported that the monkeypox virus is spreading in Melbourne, the first widespread example of local transmission since the global outbreak began.