What is mpox?

Mpox, also called monkeypox, is a rare virus. Most people are not at risk of mpox. It can be spread between animals and humans. You can get mpox after having close contact with an infected person, animal, or object. People at most risk of mpox in Australia are men who have sex with men. It can cause rashes, sores, blisters, mouth ulcers, fever, headaches and pain.

Mpox can spread from people to other people, through:

  • direct skin contact with infected skin sores, blisters or rashes
  • touching or kissing
  • sexual activity

Mpox can spread from animals to people, through:

  • bites and scratches
  • contact with infected blood, body fluid or skin of the animal or its bedding
  • eating or preparing meat from an infected animal