The World Health Organization (WHO) declared earlier this week that Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, had become a “public health emergency.”
In Australia, Mpox cases are also increasing, with numbers surpassing those recorded in 2023.
The growing rates of infection have led to concerns that Australia may see a further escalation in cases, particularly as the disease continues to spread in other countries.
Why is it no longer called Monkeypox, and how serious is it as an infectious disease?
Earlier this week, it was reported that the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was experiencing the biggest outbreak of the disease, with tens of thousands of people infected as of June.
On today’s episode of The Briefing, we talked to Professor Andrew Grulich, Head of the HIV Epidemiology and Prevention Program at the Kirby Institute, to discuss whether the growing rates of infection overseas mean numbers here will only continue to grow.
Grulich said that while efforts like vaccination and contact tracing are essential, they may not be sufficient to halt the spread entirely.
“We do need higher rates of vaccination,” Grulich said.
He pointed out that Australia has recorded around 400 cases of Mpox so far this year. He also emphasised the importance of ensuring that people feel comfortable coming forward and are willing to discuss any contacts they may have had, as vaccination, even after exposure, can help prevent infection.
“It really demands that we have a practical, pragmatic, and stigma-free approach to this, and if we can do that, we will avoid further major epidemics in Australia at least,” he added.
Grulich also encouraged individuals in the at-risk group to get vaccinated.
“It’s free. Don’t let money be an obstacle. Just Google ‘where can I get my Mpox vaccination,’ and you’ll find the answer in your state.”
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