The executive director of Auckland Pride is calling on the Government to introduce financial support for those isolating with monkeypox (MPX) as community transmission in Aotearoa continues to climb.
It comes after Te Whatu Ora/Health New Zealand confirmed three new cases of MPX on Friday, two of which are in Tāmaki Makaurau and one in the Waikato region.
The latest report brings the total number of confirmed cases to 23 in the current monkeypox outbreak - including both active and recovered cases.
And while community transmission was expected in Aotearoa, the Ministry of Health (MoH) has assessed the current risk of the MPX outbreak as "low".
Newshub asked Te Whatu Ora how long those with MPX have to isolate. A spokesperson said each new case is assessed before an isolation period is set.
"This can vary depending on timeframes since the onset of symptoms and the type of symptoms."
Regardless, executive director of Auckland Pride Max Tweedie is concerned if isolation periods extend over weeks, it could be "challenging" because many Kiwis don't have weeks of leave up their sleeve.
"It's really important that there are isolation payments available for people isolating with monkeypox and potentially a close contact," Tweedie said.
Tweedie is urging the Government to introduce MPX isolation payments, so those with MPX can comfortably and confidently isolate themselves for the entire period "so they don't have to leave isolation for any financial pressures and risk spreading the virus further".
He said while it's great that the Government has made MPX testing free, it needs to go further in its response.
"The principle is the same here, removing barriers so that people are able to follow the public health measures that we ask of them."
Tweedie told Newshub he's concerned the lack of financial help may discourage those with MPX from getting tested, ultimately leading to possible further spread.
He added until Aotearoa has the MPX vaccine to distribute, the Government should be doing all it can to slow the spread.
"Isolation requirements are obviously a key part of those meassures, isolation payments would be key to making sure those are effective."
But the Minister for Social Development and Employment Carmel Sepuloni told Newshub the Government "is not looking" to introduce monkeypox-related financial support.
Instead, Sepuloni said the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) offers support, such as food, rent and other essentials, but only if you're eligible.
"If they are not eligible social services such as foodbanks may be able to assist. MSD can help link people to these support services."
Te Whatu Ora said it also offers support to those affected by MPX.
Newshub asked Te Whatu Ora if isolating with MPX is recommended or mandatory, a question that went unanswered.
"Te Whatu Ora is working with those affected by MPX, including those who are required to isolate, on a case-by-case basis to ensure they have the support they need."
