Explainer

Mpox

Real talk

Mpox is a viral infection passed through skin-to-skin contact. Getting vaccinated can reduce your risk of mpox, and is encouraged for all queer men (trans and cis) and their sexual partners, and all sex workers.

Myth-busting

Myth: “Mpox is a new thing.”
Fact: False. Mpox was first identified in monkeys in the 1950s, and was first documented in humans in the 1970s.

Myth: “Mpox is like smallpox.”
Fact: Nope. Smallpox – which has now been eradicated – was much more dangerous. Mpox tends to be milder, and is rarely fatal.

Myth: “Mpox is an STI.”
Fact: Not exclusively. Mpox can be passed through any contact with mpox lesions or certain bodily fluids – no sex needed.

What is mpox?

Mpox (previously known as monkeypox) is a viral infection passed through close body contact – with or without sex.

How do you get mpox?

Mpox can be passed through:

any contact with mpox rashes, lesions or sores on the skin (these may not be visible if they’re inside the mouth, genitals or anus)
clothing, bedding or objects that have been in contact with the virus
respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
during pregnancy from parent to baby.

What are the symptoms of mpox?

Mpox often causes a rash, sores or lesions. These can be anywhere on the body, but commonly appear on the face, arms, legs, chest or back. A rash from mpox may look like pimples or blisters, which eventually break open and then scab over.

Symptoms can occur in or on the mouth, or the genital and groin area, including the penis, vagina and anus. They may be harder to see in these areas. Sometimes, mpox can also cause fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache and exhaustion.

Most people will start to get symptoms one to two weeks after getting the infection.

How is mpox prevented?

You can reduce your risk of getting mpox by:

getting vaccinated for it
avoiding close contact with people who have mpox or mpox symptoms
avoiding contact with materials like bedding or towels that have been exposed to mpox
washing your hands regularly
asking people with mpox to wear a mask.

Mpox vaccination is currently recommended for:

all queer men (trans and cis), and their sexual partners
all trans and gender diverse people
anyone doing sex work.

Visit Australian Centre for Disease Control (ACDC) for more detailed information including where to get vaccinated in your state or territory. Alternatively, see the Australian Government’s immunisation contacts to find the relevant contact number.

How do you test for mpox?

A routine STI screening doesn’t include an mpox test.

If you have symptoms or think you may have been in contact with mpox, avoid physical contact with other people, and see your doctor or sexual health clinic as soon as possible. Make sure you call first before attending the clinic.

How do you get treated for mpox?

Most people with mpox will get better within a few weeks without specific treatment, but your doctor may suggest medications to help with symptoms.

For people who are immunocompromised or who get a more severe case of mpox, your doctor may recommend different therapies to treat mpox on a case-by-case basis.

When to see a healthcare professional

A healthcare professional can recommend the tests that are right for your body and your sexual practices. They can provide treatment straight away if you need it, check for any complications, and talk with you about re-testing or letting partners know. Regular checks are a simple way to look after yourself, your partners and your community.

See a healthcare provider if: