NSW Health is urging the community, particularly gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), to continue to be vigilant for the symptoms of monkeypox following local transmission of the virus in NSW.

Forty-two cases of monkeypox have now been identified in NSW residents. One case is confirmed to have acquired the infection in NSW, while two other cases acquired their infection within Australia.

NSW Health Executive Director of Health Protection Dr 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,” Dr 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.

“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.”

NSW Health has worked with doctors and community partners on the initial rollout of the JYNNEOS smallpox vaccination program focusing on the most high-risk groups in our communities.

A small stock holding of the JYNNEOS smallpox vaccine has been retained for post-exposure prophylaxis.

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.

If you have questions about monkeypox, contact the NSW Sexual Health Infolink on 1800 451 624.

Further information on monkeypox is available at Monkeypox.