Mpox (Monkeypox): Symptoms, Vaccines, Prevention and Treatment in Surry Hills
If you are searching for a doctor in Surry Hills who provides mpox (previously called monkeypox) vaccination, assessment and advice, Crown St Medical Centre provides comprehensive care for patients across Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Paddington, Redfern, Waterloo, Moore Park, Green Square and Woolloomooloo.
Although mpox remains relatively uncommon in Australia compared with many viral infections, NSW continues to report cases each year. International travel, close personal contact and ongoing transmission within some communities mean vaccination remains one of the most effective preventative measures for eligible people. NSW experienced a substantial outbreak in 2024, and sporadic transmission has continued into 2026, so maintaining awareness remains important.
At Crown St Medical Centre, our experienced GPs, Dr Duc Ho & Dr Aaron Coleman provide Mpox vaccination. Our Surry Hills doctors & GP team can also:
- Assessment of suspicious rashes
- Sexual health screening
- Travel medicine
- Preventative healthcare
- Vaccinations
- General practice services
Whether you live in Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Paddington or Redfern, our doctors can help you determine whether vaccination is appropriate for you.
What is Mpox?
Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is a viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus family. It is related to the virus that causes smallpox but is generally much less severe.
Most people recover completely within two to four weeks. However, some people can develop significant complications, particularly:
- people with weakened immune systems
- pregnant women
- young children
- people with severe skin conditions
- people with untreated HIV or advanced immunosuppression.
Although anyone can contract mpox through close physical contact with an infected person, current Australian epidemiology shows that the highest rates continue to occur among some sexually active networks, particularly men who have sex with men. It is important to emphasise that the virus itself does not discriminate—anyone with close exposure can become infected.
Is There Currently a Mpox Outbreak in Australia?
Yes.
Australia continues to record mpox cases, with NSW remaining one of the states reporting ongoing infections. Following the significant NSW outbreak in 2024, public health surveillance has identified continued cases during 2025 and 2026, although most recent infections have been managed without hospitalisation.
There is also continued international transmission, including ongoing outbreaks in parts of central and eastern Africa and sporadic cases in many other countries, meaning travellers may be exposed overseas.
Is there an outbreak in Surry Hills?
There is no separate declared “Surry Hills outbreak” at the time of writing. However, Surry Hills is located within inner Sydney, an area that has previously been affected during NSW outbreaks due to its dense population, active nightlife, healthcare services and international travel connections. Local residents should remain aware of symptoms and seek medical advice promptly if they develop a suspicious rash or have had a potential exposure.
How Does Mpox Spread?
Mpox spreads through close contact with:
- skin lesions
- body fluids
- prolonged face-to-face respiratory contact
- contaminated clothing
- bedding
- towels
- sexual contact
- intimate physical contact.
Unlike COVID-19, mpox is not considered primarily an airborne infection during everyday community interactions. Transmission generally requires closer or prolonged contact.
What Are the Symptoms of Mpox?
Symptoms usually develop 5 to 21 days after exposure.
Early symptoms include:
- fever
- headache
- muscle aches
- fatigue
- swollen lymph nodes
- chills
Several days later, a rash typically develops. The rash may begin as flat spots before progressing to raised bumps, blisters and pustules that eventually crust and heal. Lesions may occur on the face, hands, feet, mouth, genitals or around the anus.
What Are the Health Risks?
Most infections are mild, but complications can occur, including:
- severe pain
- bacterial skin infections
- dehydration
- eye infections
- pneumonia
- encephalitis (rare)
- scarring after lesions heal.
People who are immunocompromised, pregnant or very young are at higher risk of severe disease.
How Can You Reduce Your Risk?
Preventative measures include:
- receiving vaccination if eligible
- avoiding close contact with anyone who has a suspicious rash
- practising safer sex and discussing recent symptoms with partners
- avoiding sharing towels, bedding or clothing with someone who may have mpox
- washing hands regularly
- seeking medical review promptly if symptoms develop
- staying home and avoiding close contact until medically assessed if you develop a compatible rash.
Mpox Vaccination at Crown St Medical Centre
Crown St Medical Centre proudly offers mpox vaccination for eligible patients.
Vaccination are performed by Dr Duc Ho & Dr Aaron Coleman only. Vaccination remains the most effective way of reducing the risk of infection and, importantly, reducing the likelihood of severe illness if infection occurs.
Dr Duc Ho & Dr Aaron Coleman can determine whether you are eligible under current NSW recommendations and provide advice tailored to your individual health needs.
Which Vaccine is Used?
Australia uses the JYNNEOS® vaccine (also known as Modified Vaccinia Ankara–Bavarian Nordic or MVA-BN). It is a third-generation, non-replicating vaccine developed to protect against both smallpox and mpox.
How many doses are needed?
For most eligible adults:
- Two doses are recommended.
- The doses are given at least 28 days apart.
- Maximum protection develops about two weeks after the second dose.
- Current evidence suggests around 80% protection against mpox after the full course, while also reducing the risk of severe disease if breakthrough infection occurs.
Who Should Consider Vaccination?
Your GP may recommend vaccination if you:
- are a man who has sex with men and have risk factors for exposure
- have multiple sexual partners
- are living with HIV and have ongoing exposure risk
- are taking HIV PrEP and are at risk
- work in certain healthcare or laboratory settings with potential exposure
- have had a recent high-risk exposure and require post-exposure vaccination
- are travelling to areas experiencing significant mpox outbreaks.
Is the Vaccine Safe?
Yes.
JYNNEOS has an excellent safety profile and is the preferred vaccine in Australia, including for many people who are pregnant, breastfeeding or immunocompromised when vaccination is indicated.
Common Side Effects
Most side effects are mild and resolve within a few days.
They include:
- soreness at the injection site
- redness
- swelling
- fatigue
- headache
- muscle aches
- mild fever
- enlarged lymph nodes.
Serious allergic reactions are very rare but can occur with any vaccine. Your GP will discuss the benefits and risks before vaccination.
Can You Still Get Mpox After Vaccination?
Yes.
No vaccine offers 100% protection. However, vaccinated people who develop mpox are generally less likely to experience severe disease, widespread lesions or hospitalisation.
When Should You See a GP?
Arrange an appointment promptly if you have:
- a new blistering or pustular rash
- swollen lymph nodes with fever
- genital ulcers
- rectal pain
- recent overseas travel with symptoms
- close contact with someone diagnosed with mpox.
Early diagnosis helps reduce transmission and ensures appropriate management.
Why Choose Crown St Medical Centre?
Patients throughout Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Paddington, Redfern, Waterloo, Green Square and Woollahra choose Crown St Medical Centre because we provide:
- Experienced GPs
- Same-day appointments where available
- Comprehensive vaccination services
- Sexual health services
- Travel medicine
- Women’s health
- Men’s health
- Chronic disease management
- Preventative healthcare
- Convenient online bookings
Whether you are looking for a Surry Hills GP, a doctor near Darlinghurst, or mpox vaccination in inner Sydney, our team is here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is monkeypox the same as mpox?
Yes. The disease was previously called monkeypox. The preferred medical name is now mpox.
- Is mpox contagious?
Yes. It spreads mainly through close physical contact with infected skin lesions, body fluids and contaminated materials, as well as prolonged close face-to-face contact.
- Can anyone get mpox?
Yes. Although current Australian cases occur more commonly in certain higher-risk groups, anyone exposed to the virus can become infected.
- Is there a vaccine available in Australia?
Yes. The JYNNEOS vaccine is available in NSW for eligible individuals.
- Is the vaccine free?
For eligible groups in NSW, the vaccine is provided free of charge under the state program. Eligibility should be confirmed with your GP or vaccination provider.
- Does Medicare cover the vaccine?
A Medicare card is not required to receive the funded vaccine for eligible people in NSW.
- Can I receive other vaccines at the same time?
In many cases, yes. Your GP can advise whether co-administration is appropriate based on your health circumstances.
- What if I have been exposed to someone with mpox?
Seek medical advice as soon as possible. Post-exposure vaccination may be recommended, ideally within four days of exposure, although it can still be considered up to 14 days after exposure in some circumstances.
- Should I travel overseas if there are mpox outbreaks?
Travel is possible, but you should review destination-specific health advice, consider vaccination if eligible and take sensible precautions to reduce your risk of exposure.
- Where can I get vaccinated in Surry Hills?
Crown St Medical Centre Dr Duc Ho & Dr Aaron Coleman offers mpox vaccination for eligible patients. Contact our friendly reception team or book online to discuss your eligibility with one of our experienced GPs.
At Crown St Medical Centre, our Surry Hills doctors and GPs offers a range of services including:
- Women’s Health Clinic
- Men’s Health Services
- Sexual Health Checks
- Travel Vaccinations
- Fertility & Preconception Care
- Weight Management Clinic
- Chronic Disease Management
- Mental Health Care Plans
- Skin Checks & Minor Procedures
- Iron Infusions and much more
Book Your Mpox Vaccination at Crown St Medical Centre
If you are concerned about mpox, are planning overseas travel, believe you may be eligible for vaccination, or would simply like personalised advice from an experienced GP, Crown St Medical Centre in Surry Hills is here to help.
We provide comprehensive, evidence-based care for patients from Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Paddington, Redfern, Waterloo, Green Square, Woollahra and surrounding suburbs. Our experienced doctors can assess your individual risk, answer your questions and, where appropriate, administer the JYNNEOS® mpox vaccine.
Book an Appointment Online today to protect your health and receive expert medical advice close to home.
Last medically reviewed: 20 June 2026
Reviewed by: Doctors at Crown St Medical Centre – Surry Hills’ trusted Medical Practice
Location: Crown Street, Surry Hills NSW
