Mpox: What is it and how do you protect yourself from it?

Australia has recorded at least 343 cases this year which is more than double the number during the last outbreak in 2022 when there 144 cases (as at August 28). The outbreak here is less severe than the type that's causing serious illness and deaths in Central Africa. But what is mpox?

Mpox graphic for audio feature. Credit: SBS

Key Points

• According to WHO, Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus, that can cause a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes, fever, headache, muscle ache, back pain and low energy. Most people fully recover, but some get very sick.
• Mpox spreads from person to person mainly through close contact with someone who has mpox, including members of a household.
• Two-dose mpox vaccination remains the best defence against getting a severe case.