The Government has secured monkeypox (MPX) medicine which is expected to be available in New Zealand from late September.
Te Whatu Ora (Health New Zealand) is also working with Pharmac to secure a supply of a smallpox vaccine known as Imvanex or Jynneos, which is effective against monkeypox.
"I'm pleased we've been able to secure 504 courses of the monkeypox medicine tecovirimat. This medicine will be free and used to treat those who become unwell with MPX," Associate Minister of Health Dr Ayesha Verrall said in a statement.
"While New Zealand doesn't currently have any active cases of MPX, and the risk of widespread transmission is low, it is important we are prepared.
"Sometimes people with the virus experience painful lesions and some people may require hospital-level care. This medicine will help those people."
New Zealand has so far recorded four cases of monkeypox, with the last infection being announced on August 11.
Monkeypox can be passed from person to person through close physical, intimate or sexual contact with someone who has the virus, via skin-to-skin contact. It can also be transferred to a person by direct contact with the skin rashes, lesions, scabs or bodily fluids of someone with monkeypox.
The virus can also be passed to a person by touching clothing, bedding or towels used by someone with a monkeypox rash.
"Labour Governments have a long history of supporting Aotearoa's LGBTQIA+ and takatāpui communities and I hope that this news will alleviate some worry for those who may be at risk if further cases occur in New Zealand," Dr Verrall said.
"While most people with MPX will be able to isolate and recover fine at home, having access to this medicine provides assurance that we can assist people who could be more impacted by MPX.
Dr Verrall said treatment is a small part of the Government's wide-ranging response in preparation for a potential monkeypox outbreak.
"The Public Health Agency and Te Whatu Ora have taken a holistic approach ranging from prevention and preparation messaging, testing availability, contract tracing and providing support to those who contract it and need to isolate," she said.
Dr Verrall said testing for monkeypox can be carried out at sexual health or family planning clinics as well as a general medical practice.
"The test itself is just a quick swab of any lesions on your skin and/or a throat swab," she said.
"We are also working hard to secure access to a vaccine, but there is limited global supply and distribution is being prioritised to those countries experiencing outbreaks, which we currently aren't.
Dr Verrall urged anyone with monkeypox symptoms to stay at home.
"While MPX is not as contagious as some other diseases, such as measles or COVID-19, it is still key that if you develop symptoms you stay home, self-isolate and seek advice. Many illnesses can cause similar symptoms so it may not be MPX, but it's important to get help," Dr Verrall said.
