Australia Sees Surge in mpox Cases: Health Alerts Issued

Australia is witnessing a rise in mpox cases with the states of Western Australia and Victoria issuing health alerts. The country has recorded 306 cases in 2024, a significant jump from previous years. Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is less severe in Australia but requires vigilance and preventive measures.

Adelaide, Aug 24 (The Conversation) – Western Australia and Victoria have issued health alerts this week regarding new mpox cases. WA reported two, while Victoria noted 125 cases this year. New South Wales also issued a health notice after recording 135 cases this month.

Across Australia, 306 mpox cases have been identified in 2024, with 198 occurring since July. This is a stark rise compared to 144 cases in 2022 and 26 in 2023.

Fortunately, the mpox strain in Australia is milder than the one prompting the World Health Organisation to declare an international public health emergency. However, public health vigilance remains crucial.