Mpox

What is this?

Mpox is a viral infection that causes lumps or blisters on the skin. It usually has mild symptoms and clears up by itself with the symptoms lasting from 2 to 4 weeks.

How do you get it?

Mpox is transmitted from one person to another by close contact with skin lesions, including sexual contact. It’s also transmitted through respiratory droplets, body fluids, or recently contaminated materials such as bedding. Respiratory transmission usually requires prolonged face-to-face contact.

What are the symptoms?

Mpox infection can cause symptoms such as fever, muscle aches and swollen lymph glands. 

A rash appears on the body with small lumps that blister and then crust over. 

These usually clear by themselves without treatment. 

Occasionally mpox can require treatment by a doctor or hospital admission if:

• The skin lesions are painful and don’t respond to over the counter pain relief. This can be because the lesions turn into ulcers.
• You can’t pass urine or open your bowels because of pain.  
• Your lesions are extensive.
• Your lesions get infected with bacteria which causes cellulitis. 

How do you test for it?

Your doctor can take a swab that will be sent to a laboratory for testing to confirm mpox.

How is it treated?

If you have any of the above symptoms, call us on
9431 6200 Monday to Friday 8:30am - 5pm or
Present to an emergency department or
Call your GP for advice

Are there any complications if not treated?

The lesions can get infected and cause cellulitis. Cellulitis is caused when certain types of bacteria enter the deeper layers of the skin. It makes your skin red, painful, hot and swollen. Mild cellulitis can be treated by oral antibiotics from your doctor. More severe cellulitis is usually treated in hospital with antibiotics given by injection.

Is it likely to come back after treatment?

We don’t know yet.

Where can I get help?

• Visit your local doctor