Queensland Health confirms Clade 1 strain of monkeypox detected, second time ever for Australia
Queensland Health confirmed the case of monkeypox (Mpox) was detected in the state's Metro South region.
Testing revealed it to be the Clade 1 strain of the virus - marking the second time in history the more serious strain has ever been detected in Australia.
The case was acquired overseas but authorities say the risk to the wider community is very low.
Queensland Health confirmed exposure to the public had been limited and contact tracing was underway after the detection.
According to the Australian Immunisation Handbook, the symptoms of Mpox can include fever, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, headache
and muscle aches, followed by a rash within 2-4 days of infection.
It spreads primarily through close or intimate contact.
Complications of the virus can range from bacterial infections to enciphalitus and pneumonia.
The Clade 1 strain of the virus is known cause higher numbers of severe illnesses.
Free Mpox vaccines are available to high-risk groups through sexual health clinics and GPs.
'Vaccination is available for post-exposure prophylaxis as well as primary preventive vaccination. High risk groups, including all sexually active gay, bisexual or other men who have sex with men and their partners, are eligible for free vaccines through sexual health clinics and general practitioners,' Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said.
Two doses are recommended for optimal protection.
Those travelling to areas with Clade 1 transmission are encouraged to get vaccinated before departure.
Queensland Health is monitoring the situation.
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ABC News
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News.com.au
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'It can be hard watching someone you love struggle, and not knowing why or how you can help,' Ms Williams said. 'If you don't open up about your experiences, you risk misunderstandings. They might feel like you don't trust them, which can put strain on your relationship.' Grace agreed. 'Hiding often does the most damage. When you're not talking about what's going on, the relationship starts running on assumptions, silence, and second-guessing,' she said. 'Your partner might start thinking you're pulling away, not interested, or emotionally unavailable when really, you're just trying to survive. That disconnect can create tension, resentment, or emotional shutdown. Believing that you always have to be 'the strong one' and that no one ever helps you can become a self-fulfilling prophecy,' Grace warned. 'If you never ask for help or never share what you're feeling … our partners aren't mind-readers.' 'You don't have to tell them everything at once' There is no 'right' time to disclose a mental health problem you might have with your partner — 'no perfect milestone or script'. But, Grace said, 'sooner is usually better, especially if it's starting to affect how you show up in the relationship'. 'It's probably best not to 'unload' on a first date. Being open about your mental health is important, however, be intentional with what you share, as it can feel really overwhelming for your date if they feel like they need to go into 'therapist mode',' she advised. When you do decide to broach the conversation, it can be helpful to 'think of a few key things you want to share'. 'But you don't need to over-rehearse — you're allowed to be clunky,' Grace said. 'You don't have to tell them everything at once. Start small: (you could say) 'I've been dealing with something lately that I want share with you',' she continued. 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'Don't try to fix it, because you probably can't. Also, your partner isn't a problem that needs to be fixed — they are a person in the process of living,' she added. 'Don't minimise it. Don't jump into problem-solving mode unless they ask for it. Say something like, 'Thanks for telling me. I'm here, even if I don't have the perfect words.' 'And check in again later, not just once. That's how you show someone you're in it with them.' As the listener, Ms Williams noted that 'you might feel powerless to help, and that's OK'. 'But you can help them manage their day-to-day experiences, encourage them to get professional support and help them feel less alone,' she said. 'Looking after yourself is an important part of looking after someone else. You can't pour from an empty cup. Talking to someone you can trust can take some of the pressure off and help you navigate this tough time.'
