The Burnett Foundation, formerly known as the AIDS Foundation, has reported suspected cases of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox), all of which are believed to have occurred during Winter Pride events.

The Foundation urged attendees to watch for symptoms, including flu-like signs such as swollen lymph nodes, fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, or a rash, pimples, or skin lesions on or around the genitals.

They advised anyone experiencing these symptoms to contact their local sexual health clinic and refrain from sexual activity to prevent further transmission.

“We are awaiting confirmation from health officials. Mpox can be a very painful and serious illness, and we ask everyone to help us contain this outbreak,” the Burnett Foundation said in a statement.

For more information on testing, treatment, and prevention, the Foundation directed the public to their website.

Winter Pride NZ also issued a statement, saying, “We encourage everyone to get checked regularly to know their status and be proactive with their sexual health to keep our communities safe.”

They highlighted the global outbreak of mpox and reminded attendees to get tested, especially if they were planning to travel.

Reports of mpox at some Winter Pride events led organisers to strongly recommend that attendees monitor for symptoms and seek testing as soon as possible to help prevent further transmission.

Winter Pride NZ also stressed the importance of being tested for all STIs, particularly for mpox, especially for those who are unvaccinated.

For more information about mpox or to book a vaccine consultation, attendees were urged to contact their local sexual health clinic.