Mpox virus particles. Photo: SERGII IAREMENKO/SCIENCE PHOTO L
Five cases of mpox have now been confirmed as of Thursday, which are linked to the recent Winter Pride Festival in Queenstown.
Health New Zealand have confirmed the virus is clade II and are not linked to recent clade I cases in Africa.
It said all of New Zealand's mpox cases since reporting began in 2022 have to date been clade II.
There are two types of mpox, known as clade I and clade II - both have caused current outbreaks in African countries, with a recent increase in clade I cases in Africa leading to WHO recently declaring a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
Mpox has mostly affected the following groups, who are at greatest risk of contracting the virus:
- gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM).
- people who have sex with MSM - this may include people of any gender or sexual identity, whether they are transgender or cisgender, and non-binary people. We also know there is higher risk for those with multiple anonymous sexual partners.
Symptoms of mpox usually show up between 1 and 3 weeks after exposure.
Most people with mpox develop a rash or other skin change. These are known as 'lesions'. Lesions are spots, bumps, blisters or sores.
Symptoms include:
Some people also experience flu-like symptoms early on, including:
Health New Zealand said if you think you have been exposed to mpox, or if you develop symptoms, especially a rash, please seek medical advice.
It advised to contact your nearest sexual health clinic, GP or healthcare professional, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice and support.
If you are diagnosed with mpox you do not need to isolate. Cover skin lesions (where possible), and refrain from sexual and intimate activity until any lesions have healed completely. Use a condom during sexual activity for three months after your symptoms have gone.
