Second case of monkeypox detected in South Australia

SA Health says the state has recorded its second case of monkeypox, in a man who has recently returned from overseas.

He is isolating at home.

Two close contacts have been identified and have been advised to receive the monkeypox vaccine, SA Health said.

“There is no risk to public health,” the department said in a statement.

“SA Health continues to test people with illnesses compatible with MPX as needed.”

South Australia’s only other case of monkeypox was reported in June.

Nationally, there were 70 cases reported as of last Thursday, the federal Department of Health said.

SA Health last week announced it had acquired 900 monkeypox vaccine doses.

Two doses of the vaccine are required for each person.

Chief Public Health Officer Nicola Spurrier said men who have sex with men who were living with HIV or had a recent sexual infection, or people receiving preventative medication for HIV, would be eligible for the first batch of monkeypox vaccines.

Symptoms of monkeypox include fever, headache, fatigue, rash, lesions and soreness in the genitalia area.