Public health officials have announced a second case of mpox connected to the recent Winter Pride Festival held in Queenstown. Dr Susan Jack, National Clinic Director of Public Health, noted that while more cases could still be identified, the overall risk of widespread mpox transmission in New Zealand remains low.
The National Public Health Service and Sexual Health Services are providing support to those affected, including others who may have been exposed during the festival last month.
As of today’s announcement, New Zealand has recorded 55 mpox cases since the disease became notifiable in June 2022, with six cases confirmed this year.
Medsafe has also granted provisional approval for the Jynneos mpox vaccine, which has been used as a preventative treatment in New Zealand since 2023. The vaccine is available to those considered at higher risk of infection, including:
– Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM),
– Trans and non-binary individuals who have sex with MSM,
– Close contacts of those infected with mpox.
Dr Jack emphasised the importance of seeking medical advice for those who may have been exposed or who develop symptoms, particularly a rash, and urged individuals with symptoms to avoid sexual activity and get support.
Minister of Health Shane Reti said the government is acting quickly in response to mpox, working to improve vaccine access. He highlighted that, while the risk remains low in New Zealand, the country is ensuring proper monitoring and resources are in place to manage the situation.
Associate Minister of Health David Seymour added that Medsafe’s provisional approval puts New Zealand in line with other countries using the vaccine. In Australia, it has been available under an exemption in their medicines legislation. Medsafe’s approval was based on evidence showing the vaccine meets acceptable standards for safety, efficacy, and quality in high-risk groups.
Reti also mentioned that Health New Zealand collaborated closely with Medsafe and the vaccine manufacturer to secure this approval. An incident management team has been set up to coordinate the national public health response while regional teams continue to manage case support and treatment.
University of Auckland professor Mark Thomas stated that mpox typically lasts around two weeks and, although it can cause considerable discomfort, it is rarely fatal. Symptoms can take up to 10 days to appear and may resemble flu-like conditions, such as fever, aches, tiredness, and loss of appetite.
Most people with mpox develop a rash or skin lesions, which can appear on various parts of the body, including the face, hands, mouth, genitals, and anus. These lesions often go through stages, from flat spots to raised blisters that eventually crust over and heal. They can be painful and itchy, and healing may take several weeks. Flu-like symptoms, such as swollen lymph nodes, fever, and muscle aches, are also common.
