In this episode of the Good GP, Dr Ramya Raman speaks with Dr Fergus McCabe, specialist GP and medical governor of Western Australia’s AIDS Council, about the current rise of mpox (monkeypox) cases in Western Australia and across Australia.

Dr McCabe talks about the epidemiology and transmission of mpox, including shifting patterns from predominantly MSM (men who have sex with men) communities to increasing numbers among heterosexual men and women. Discussing the classic and current presentations of mpox and stresses the importance of clinical suspicion, even when presentations are atypical, such as isolated proctitis.

Key topics addressed include:

• Recognising mpox: clinical features, variable presentations, and risk factors based on sexual history and practices.
• Practical advice for GPs: how to take a sexual health history, safe specimen collection, appropriate testing, infection control, and patient isolation steps.
• Guidance on vaccination: eligibility, timing, vaccine access, and recommendations for both patients at risk and healthcare workers.
• Key reminders for GPs: stay vigilant, routinely ask non-judgmental sexual health questions, and continue mpox testing regardless of vaccination status.

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