A case of monkeypox has been detected in the Whitsundays.
Monkeypox is a rare disease that is caused by infection with the monkeypox virus.
A recent increase in monkeypox cases has been reported in multiple overseas countries.
Local person-to-person transmission is suspected to have occurred among international cases via direct intimate contact with other people who are infected with monkeypox.
There have been cases reported in New South Wales, Victoria and now in the Whitsundays region.
The Mackay Public Health Unit is working closely with the Communicable Diseases Branch in Brisbane to assist in the investigation of the Whitsundays case.
Medical centres in the Whitsundays have been contacted by the Public Health Unit and asked to be vigilant for monkeypox cases.
Monkeypox usually presents as a mild illness associated with influenza like symptoms, such as fever, headache or muscle aches and swelling of the lymph glands.
Within one to three days after fever, a rash with blisters develops often beginning on the face then spreading to other parts of the body. There are no specific treatments for monkeypox infection.
It is usually a mild self-limiting illness and most people recover within two – four weeks. Rarely severe cases can occur.
People who develop symptoms should call ahead before consulting their GP.
