Monkeypox Alert

Global MPX situation

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the global situation regarding MPX to be a public health emergency of international concern.

Since May 2022, there has been a global increase in MPX infections in multiple countries where the illness is not usually seen. The situation is evolving quickly, and health authorities are monitoring closely so the most up to date evidence and advice can be provided.

Australia’s MPX situation

The unfolding situation in Australia concerning MPX is being monitored closely by health authorities. The current status as of 24 July 2022, is 44 confirmed and probable cases of MPX in Australia, with 24 cases in New South Wales. Most, but not all, cases recorded in Australia have been acquired overseas.

Monkeypox has been added to the list of notifiable diseases under the Public Health Act 2010. Healthcare professionals must notify any suspected cases of MPX to the local Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055 immediately to initiate a public health investigation, contact tracing and control measures.

The management of suspected cases for general practitioners

If monkeypox is suspected, immediately notify the on-call Westmead Hospital Infectious Disease Specialist on 8890 5555 to discuss the case and management.

What is MPX?

Monkeypox (MPX) is a disease caused by Monkeypox virus (MPXV), with symptoms similar to those seen previously with smallpox. It is spread through close contact with an infected person or animals, or with contaminated material. Find out more.

MPX resources

Please print this poster and place in your general practice.

These resources provide new and updated information about MPX symptoms, treatment and prevention, and vaccine guidance:

• NSW Health Monkeypox Alerts
• Monkeypox (MPX) DoH landing page
• Monkeypox resources
• Monkeypox fact sheet – symptoms, risks and treatment
• Monkeypox (MPX) – Patient referral and testing guidance
• ATAGI clinical guidance on vaccination against Monkeypox: ATAGI has updated clinical guidance on the use of smallpox vaccine vaccination against monkeypox. Two vaccines are available in Australia for prevention of monkeypox: the 3rd generation JYNNEOS® (MVA-BN: modified vaccinia Ankara vaccine-Bavarian Nordic) and the 2nd generation ACAM2000™
• CDNA Monkeypox virus infection case and contact management guidelines: information on the public health management of people with MPX

AIR vaccine code for Smallpox vaccine 

There have been 3 smallpox vaccines added to the list of non-standard vaccines that are able to be recorded on AIR – see AIR vaccine code formats: 

• ACAM2000 
• JYNNEOS 
• Generic smallpox 

Please email us at immunisation@cesphn.com.au if you require further information