Monkey Pox
What is monkeypox (MPXV)?
Monkeypox is a viral infection that causes a rash. It typically results in a mild illness associated with a rash. It is spread by skin-to-skin contact with someone who has monkeypox. Monkeypox mainly spreads from one person to another by direct skin-to-skin contact. It does not spread via casual contact. Most people recover within a few weeks. Since May 2022, there has been a global increase in monkeypox cases reported from multiple countries where monkeypox is not usually seen. The situation with monkeypox in Victoria is changing rapidly. While most cases have been acquired overseas, a number have acquired their infections locally. It is spread mostly through skin-to-skin contact with someone who has MPX. Most people recover within a few weeks.
Please refer to the below links for more information please see fact sheets below or visit
Monkeypox – Better Health Channel
Vaccination
Vaccination is currently available for those who are most at-risk. The Victorian Government is working to facilitate further access to vaccines. The Public Health Unit will advise the community when vaccines are available or you can register your interest & check your eligibility here:
Monkeypox vaccine access – registration form – Digital Platform – (health.vic.gov.au)
You can access FREE vaccination directly through the GV Health Public Health unit. Please email phu@gvhealth.org.au for information.
What is the public health response?
Doctors, hospitals and laboratories must notify any suspected cases to the local public health unit immediately. Public health unit staff will initiate a public health investigation, contact tracing and control measures.
Regionally the GV Health Public Health Unit has been actively working with the community, health services, local GP’s and medical centres and the Department of Health to ensure we are responsive in the management of the disease.
Further information
If you think you might have symptoms of monkeypox, please call ahead to your GP or local sexual health clinic. Wear a mask when attending the clinic.
More information can be found: Monkeypox – Better Health Channel
- ADDRESS
Goulburn Valley Public Health Unit
219-225 Wyndham Street
Shepparton, 3630
- CONTACT
Emergency: 000
Public Health Unit Hotline: 1800 313 070
Nurse on call: 1300 60 60 24
for non life threatening injury/illness
- RELATED LINKS