NSW Health is “very concerned” about rising mpox cases in NSW and increased hospitalisations among unvaccinated individuals, warning men who have sex with men to get the mpox vaccine.
The state is experiencing its largest mpox outbreak since the first case was confirmed in May 2022.
NSW Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant said there had been 433 notifications since June 1, with 46 per cent of those from unvaccinated people. Across Australia, there have been a total of 805 cases this year, compared to 26 in 2023 and 144 in 2022.
“The rapidly rising numbers of mpox cases detected across the state are very concerning, with 26 people requiring hospitalisation due to the severity of their symptoms,” Chant said.
| Number of mpox cases | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| ACT | 3 | 1 | 15 |
| NSW | 56 | 12 | 433 |
| NT | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| QLD | 6 | 2 | 68 |
| SA | 2 | 0 | 7 |
| TAS | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| VIC | 70 | 8 | 279 |
| WA | 7 | 3 | 2 |
| Total | 144 | 26 | 805 |
Thirty-seven per cent of recent cases were fully vaccinated, while 14 per cent had received one dose. Chant said NSW Health was particularly concerned about unvaccinated individuals.
“The majority of cases of hospitalisation have been among people who are unvaccinated or have received only one dose of vaccine. While cases of mpox are occurring in vaccinated people, the cases tend to be milder and for a shorter period.
“Anyone can get mpox, however the virus is mainly spread by close skin-to-skin contact and people who are at highest risk of mpox are men who have sex with men and sex workers, so we are urging them to complete their vaccinations as two doses can provide vital protection against severe illness caused by the virus.”
Michael Woodhouse, chief executive of LGBTQIA+ health organisation ACON, supported the government’s call to get vaccinated, adding that it was important not just for individuals but also for protecting those who are immunocompromised.
“You need two doses of the mpox vaccine for the greatest benefit,” Woodhouse said.
“Anyone who has only received one dose should get a second dose at least 28 days after the first. People who received their first dose in 2022 should prioritise completing their vaccinations now.”
Mpox spreads through close skin-to-skin contact, particularly sexual contact. The viral infection causes a rash, pimple-like lesions, or sores, with some people experiencing mild fevers, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and mouth ulcers.
“We are hearing that some gay and bisexual men are waiting to get vaccinated when case numbers are higher. If you are sexually active and have not received the mpox vaccine, now is the time,” said Woodhouse.
“Achieving high levels of vaccinations in the community will provide individual protection against mpox and help prevent the spread.”
The mpox vaccine is free for at-risk communities, and you do not need a Medicare card to receive it.
For information on vaccination centers, visit health.nsw.gov.au or call the Sexual Health Infolink: 1800 451 624.
Gay Sydney News reporter
Gay Sydney News editor