Since 14 May 2022 there has been a global increase in mpox cases reported from countries that are not endemic for monkeypox virus, including Australia.
Mpox is notifiable to NSW Health by medical practitioners, pathology laboratories and hospital chief executives. The management of suspected cases depends on the type of clinician.
If mpox is suspected, contact the Sexual Health Infolink (SHIL) on 1800 451 624 (weekdays 9am to 5:30pm) or visit the Sexual Health Infolink website for advice on clinical management. Outside of these hours call the Infectious Diseases/Microbiology Consultant on call at Westmead Hospital on 8890 5555. If mpox is suspected, collect samples per the Public Health Laboratory Network (PHLN) guidelines and send these to the NSW Health Pathology-ICPMR laboratory at Westmead Hospital for mpox virus testing.
Contact the on-call Infectious Diseases/ Microbiology in your Local Health District for advice on clinical management and samples to collect.
Please contact your local Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055 for more information.
