We have received a public health advisory from Te Whatu Ora Health NZ that locally acquired mpox cases have been increasing in Aotearoa recently
Almost 20 cases of mpox have already been reported since July 2025.
There is also an ongoing global outbreak of clade II mpox, meaning Aotearoa still remains at risk of mpox from returning travelers as well.
Higher risk of transmission at Queenstown Winter Pride Festival
An outbreak of mpox was linked to the 2024 Queenstown Winter Pride Festival, and it's possible the same may happen again this year.
While anyone can get mpox, globally it is still mainly impacting gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM).
About mpox
How is mpox transmitted?
Close skin-to-skin contact or prolonged contact with lesions, e.g. during sexual contact (most common way of spreading)
Through the transfer of bodily fluids such as saliva
By touching objects (e.g. sheets, towels, clothing, etc.) carrying the virus from someone infected with mpox
What are the symptoms of mpox?
A lesion or lesions (found anywhere on the body, but often in the genital region, anus, and throat)
Rectal pain
Bloody stools
Diarrhoea
Fever
Muscle aches
Malaise
Sometimes rectal pain is the only symptom.
Symptoms can occur up to 21 days after exposure.
What do I do if I think I might have mpox?
Arrange an appointment to be assessed (you can book in with your GP/NP here or contact Wellington Sexual Health)
Avoid sexual or intimate contact with other people until you've been assessed and your test results are available (if applicable)
If you have lesions, cover them with dressings or clothing to prevent other people having contact with them
How can I help protect myself against mpox?
The mpox vaccine is available free to the following groups:
Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (MSM)
Trans and non-binary people who have sex with MSM
Anyone who is a close contact of someone who has been infected with mpox
In Te Whanganui-a-Tara/Wellington you will need to arrange an appointment at Wellington Sexual Health for the mpox vaccine.
Additionally:
Use condoms (if applicable) when having sex: condoms can't stop you acquiring mpox, but they can help prevent mpox lesions in your genital area
Wash your bedding after a sexual encounter
If you know someone has mpox, avoid physical contact with them and their clothing and bedding until they have recovered
If you think you may have been exposed to mpox and you haven't already been vaccinated, contact Wellington Sexual Health as soon as possible as you may be able to receive a post-exposure vaccination (ideally within 4 days of exposure, but can be given up to 14 days post-exposure)
Where can I learn more about mpox?
Visit the Burnett Foundation Aotearoa's website.
