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The department said the latest case was not been linked to international travel, suggesting local transmission may have occured.

Acting Chief Health Officer Christian McGrath said it was an important time to be vigilant for symptoms, with increased travel at this time of year and several pride events across the state.

Monkeypox Virus. 3D Render
Victoria has recorded its first monkeypox case in more than six months. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The disease is caused by a virus that was endemic to a few African countries before a global outbreak in May 2022.

Mpox has predominantly impacted men who have sex with men.

Victoria recorded 70 cases of mpox in 2022, but with mpox vaccination program, that number fell to eight in 2023.

“If you develop symptoms, our advice is to stay home, restrict your contact with others and book in an appointment with your GP or nearest sexual health service,” McGrath said.

The monkeypox virus is spreading in Melbourne in the first widespread example of local transmission since the global outbreak began.
Mpox often starts with small pimple-like skin lesions, which spread, develop pus and crust over. (9News)

Mpox continues to spread in many countries and there remains an ongoing risk of local outbreaks from returned travellers.

McGrath urged anyone eligible who is not double vaccinated to make an appointment with a vaccine provider.

“For optimal protection you need two doses of the mpox vaccine administered at least 28 days apart,” he said.

‌The mpox vaccine is free and available through more than 250 providers across Victoria.

Mpox often starts with small pimple-like skin lesions, which spread, develop pus and crust over.

It can also cause fever, headache, fatigue or swollen lymph nodes and until the lesions crust over and are replaced by fresh skin.

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