Overview
Mpox is a disease caused by the Mpox virus (MPX). Current evidence suggests that the spread of Mpox can occur when a person comes into close contact with an infected animal, an infected human, or materials contaminated with the virus.
The risk of MPX transmission through food is low. Currently, there is no evidence that food or food packaging is a likely source or route of transmission of the virus. Only bushmeat (meat from hunted wildlife in Africa) has been suspected as a source of MPX in human cases of Mpox. Food (other than bushmeat) has never been identified as being associated with human cases of Mpox. In addition, SFA requires all meat to be imported only from SFA-accredited sources and there are no SFA-accredited sources of bushmeat.
Nevertheless, it is important to always adopt good personal hygiene and food safety measures. Individuals preparing food should observe the following:
- Do not engage in any food handling/preparation if unwell;
- Wash hands with soap and water before, during and after handling food;
- Use clean disposable gloves when handling ready-to-eat or cooked food;
- Handle raw and cooked/ready-to-eat food separately;
- Cook food thoroughly at high temperatures above 75°C;
- Keep hot food above 60°C;
- Store raw and cooked/ready-to-eat food separately;
- Cover food properly to prevent contamination; and
- Frequently wash and sanitise both equipment and premises such as all food contact surfaces, and touchpoints including counter tops, utensils, and condiment containers.
For more food safety tips, refer to Food Hygiene Practices & Guidelines.
Awareness of mpox symptoms can help you exercise personal responsibility and take the necessary precautions. For more information on Mpox, refer to the related resources in the table below: