The first case of monkeypox has been recorded in Victoria after the Department of Health confirmed a man has been tested positive for the disease after travelling back from the UK.
A person in his 30s was diagnosed with the illness on May 12 and developed minimal symptoms before returning to Melbourne on May 16 and seeking medical assistance.
The virus was discovered through testing.
“He had an exceptionally smart GP who considered monkeypox and referred him for testing, which has allowed for early detection, isolation, and treatment,” said Dr. Sutton on Friday.
He is still in isolation at The Alfred Hospital and is in good health.
Contact tracing has begun, with the man’s closest contacts being asked to look for symptoms and quarantine only if they develop them.
Passengers travelling on the same flight, Flight EY10, from London to Abu Dhabi on May 14th, are also being contacted as a precaution.
“Some close contacts will be offered a vaccination, which may be effective up to four days after potential exposure.”
The first sign of chickenpox is a flu-like condition, including fever, migraines, and muscular aches and pains.