Health authorities have urged sexually active Australians to be vigilant about dating over the festive season amid a rise in mpox cases on one side of the country.
Western Australia has recorded at least 15 cases of the infectious disease since last October.
The virus is commonly transmitted through sexual or intimate contact, but can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact or with contaminated items such as bedding and towels.
Rare incidents of infection from breathing in droplets from coughs and sneezes have also been recorded.
The strain currently circulating in WA is suspected to be ‘clade II’, the same strain that has been detected on the east coast of Australia.
Most cases were acquired in gay and bisexual male communities.
Officials said sexual activity with anonymous partners, along with delayed onset of symptoms, is hampering efforts to track the spread of the disease.
WA Health Communicable Disease Control Director Dr Paul Armstrong said challenges with contact tracing have meant people may not be aware they have the disease.
Western Australians have been warned to watch out for mpox symptoms, with at least 15 cases recorded since October last year (file image)
The disease (pictured) is most commonly transmitted through sexual intercourse.
“Contact tracing is one of the most effective tools for tracking the spread of mpox, however, anonymous and casual sexual encounters make this challenging,” Dr. Armstrong said.
“I encourage people who engage in anonymous sex through apps, at sex parties, or at sex venues to take extra precautions.”
“The increase in locally acquired cases highlights the importance of community awareness and preventive measures, especially during the busy holiday season when social interactions can increase.”
Sexually active people are urged to use protection, keep their partner’s contact details and get tested if they experience symptoms, no matter how mild.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of mpox has been urged to avoid close or intimate contact and see their doctor for testing.
Initial symptoms include a single lesion or rash and can occur within three days or up to 21 days after infection, according to the Department of Health.
Symptoms most commonly develop into fluid-filled lesions, pustules, or ulcers, but some also experience fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, or enlarged lymph nodes.
Sexual partners of those who have sex with men and sex workers are considered high risk and can receive the vaccine for free.
Two doses at least one month apart are required for optimal protection.