Western Australia records first case of monkeypox

Western Australia has recorded its first case on monkeypox after a traveller returned from overseas.

WA Health said the person had isolated in Perth and authorities were contact tracing.

Director of Communicable Disease Control Directorate Dr Paul Armstrong said returned travellers should remain vigilant for symptoms.

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"Monkeypox is spread to humans through close contact with an infected person or animal, either by direct contact with open lesions or prolonged face-to-face contact or with material contaminated with the virus," Armstrong said.

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"A person with monkeypox can transmit the infection to other people through skin lesions, body fluids, respiratory droplets and contaminated materials such as bedding."

Armstrong said initial signs of the illness may include flu-like symptoms such as fever or headache.

"A rash typically develops that appears as bumps, pimples or sores, and develops into fluid-filled lesions, pustules or ulcers," he said.

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"The rash can be widespread or localised to one area.

"While the current overseas outbreak has disproportionately impacted men who have sex with men, anyone who has had close contact with a person with monkeypox is advised to self-monitor for symptoms."

People who develop symptoms of monkeypox should isolate, wear a mask and contact their GP or a sexual health clinic for advice about testing.

There have been 53 cases recorded in Australia as of August 2.

Western Australia will receive a limited supply of vaccines for monkeypox in the coming days.

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