General News
15 August, 2022
Victoria receives first vaccine doses to limit Monkeypox spread
While only 22 cases of the monkeypox virus have been recorded in Victoria, vaccines to help prevent the spread of the disease have arrived in the state, headed to those most at risk. Monkeypox is a virus that often starts with flu-like symptoms —...
While only 22 cases of the monkeypox virus have been recorded in Victoria, vaccines to help prevent the spread of the disease have arrived in the state, headed to those most at risk.
Monkeypox is a virus that often starts with flu-like symptoms — fever, headaches and muscle aches and pains. It causes a distinctive blistering rash and swollen lymph nodes. Severe illness is unusual.
It can spread from person-to-person through skin-to-skin contact, contact with infected surfaces or items and respiratory droplets. Transmission requires prolonged and often intimate contact with an infected individual.
Most Victorian cases have presented in returned international travellers, while one has been locally acquired.
The first vaccine doses will be restricted to those who meet the eligibility criteria and will be delivered in partnership with sexual health clinics and local public health units, with more vaccines to arrive later this year.
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas said the vaccine is highly effective.
“Initial eligibility for vaccination is limited to priority at risk groups however with more vaccines set to arrive later this year, we will work with the Commonwealth to ensure all Victorians who need a vaccination get one,” she said.
For more information and vaccine eligibility visit www.health.vic. gov.au/health-alerts/health-warning-on-monkeypox