WA Health authorities call to stay alert and vaccinate as mpox cases increase

Health authorities in Western Australia are urging people to be vigilant of mpox symptoms and to get vaccinated as cases continue to rise.

There have been 36 confirmed cases of mpox in Western Australia this year; in May, that number was 22.

WA had 28 cases in total for all of 2025 and 23 in 2024. Most cases have been acquired locally.

The Department of Health sent out a reminder for people to be aware of the signs and symptoms of mpox. They are asking individuals to seek medical advice if they develop symptoms following this increase.

While the majority of cases have been in gay, bisexual and men who have sex with men, several infections have been identified in heterosexual men and women this year.

Related content:

What to do if you think you have mpox?

Mpox is a viral infection that spreads through close physical contact with an infected person.

This includes skin-to-skin contact, intimate or sexual contact, contact with contaminated materials such as bedding or towels, and prolonged face-to-face contact.

Symptoms can include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, and a rash or skin lesions that may be painful.

Anyone with symptoms should avoid close physical contact with others and seek prompt medical assessment.

Most patients recover from mpox on their own, but some can become seriously ill. In recent years, QNews has spoken to Aussies who’ve experienced extremely painful symptoms after contracting mpox.

Director of the Communicable Disease Control Directorate, Dr Paul Armstrong, said awareness, using condoms, early testing and vaccination remained the best ways to limit the spread.

“While most infections continue to occur in specific higher-risk groups, mpox can affect anyone who has close physical contact with an infected person,” Dr Armstrong said.

“It’s important that anyone who develops symptoms, particularly an unexplained rash or skin lesions, seeks medical advice promptly and avoids close contact with others until they have been assessed.”

“We are encouraging people who are eligible for vaccination to ensure they are fully protected by receiving both doses of the vaccine.”

Anyone who is concerned they may have been exposed to mpox or is experiencing symptoms consistent with the infection should call ahead before attending a healthcare facility so precautions can be arranged.

Free mpox vaccinations available

Mpox vaccination can reduce the risk of infection and severe disease and is available free of charge to eligible people across Western Australia. A Medicare Card is not required for a free vaccination.

Vaccination is recommended for people at higher risk of exposure, including eligible gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, sex workers and other people whose sexual practices place them at increased risk of mpox infection. Two doses are recommended for optimal protection.

The Department of Health said in a statement that it “is continuing to work closely with public health units, GPs, sexual health services and community organisations to support testing, contact tracing and vaccination.”

“A statewide public awareness campaign is also underway across social media, regional radio and Perth Airport to encourage people at risk to get vaccinated and seek testing if they develop symptoms.”

More information about mpox, including eligibility for vaccination, is available on the HealthyWA website.

For the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, and community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.