Most patients can be managed at home with a telehealth review through their GP, sexual health clinic or Public Health Unit. In most cases, mpox does not require treatment.
Clinical situations that may require further review or treatment include:
Patients with disseminated disease or respiratory involvement may be hospitalised for non-clinical reasons if there is concern the patient is unable to effectively isolate at home independently.
Initial treatment should be discussed with local infectious diseases or sexual health physicians. Patients may be admitted to their local hospital, following the principles outlined in the CEC Mpox Infection Prevention and Control Information for Clinicians guidelines. The NSW Specialist Service for High Consequence Infectious Diseases at Westmead can be contacted for expert advice.
Indications for antiviral treatment can be found in the Australian mpox treatment guidelines. Antiviral agents can be accessed through the NSW Specialist Service for High Consequence Infectious Diseases (or contact the infectious diseases physician on-call at Westmead Hospital via the switchboard on 02 8890 5555).
The mode of transport for a patient who requires admission should be dictated by the severity of illness. This decision should be made in consultation with the local Public Health Unit.
For a mild mpox illness, patients can be transported by a family member or carer, or by public transport, provided their lesions are covered, the patient wears a mask, and the patient is diligent with hand hygiene.
For severe or disseminated disease, transport by NSW Ambulance may be required.
