THE Public Health Ministry urged people to be vigilant as 48 cases of monkeypox, aka mpox, appeared after the holiday season ended, including five cases of Clade Ib variant, with it being possible for more people to catch the disease and outbreaks crop up in some areas, TV Channel 7 said today (May 7).
Dr. Montien Kanasawasdi, director-general of the Department of Disease Control, said continuous vigilance is necessary because this disease has an incubation period of approximately 5-21 days, meaning symptoms may begin to appear gradually.
Of the 48 confirmed cases of mpox 43 are of the Clade II variant and five Clade Ib.
In recent years, mpox virus Clade Ib has emerged as a significant global public health threat due to its rapid transmission and potential for severe disease outcomes. This strain was first identified in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in September 2023 and began spreading to neighbouring African countries by July 2024. It was subsequently imported through international travel to 12 non-African countries across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Clade Ib exhibits increased transmissibility, and current data suggest that infections may lead to more severe symptoms, with higher risks of severe illness and mortality, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children, pregnant individuals, and immunocompromised groups (e.g., people living with HIV/AIDS). Epidemiologically, Clade Ib primarily spreads through sexual contact, close household contact, and healthcare-related exposure, China CDD Weekly said.
The majority of the patients are male, primarily in the 18-39 age group, with the main route of infection being sexual intercourse. Overall, the situation is under control, but continuous monitoring is necessary as contact tracing has not been completed for some cases.
Mpox can be transmitted through close contact with infected individuals, particularly by touching rashes or blisters, exposure to bodily fluids, or prolonged close proximity. Therefore, both Thai and foreign tourists are urged to take appropriate care of their health and protect themselves by avoiding getting close to those exhibiting symptoms, maintaining good personal hygiene, and reducing risky behaviour to minimise the chances of getting infected and spreading the disease.
Symptoms to watch out for include fever, fatigue, body aches, swollen lymph nodes, and rashes or blisters on the body. If these symptoms occur, especially after recent activities or travel, seek medical attention immediately and provide relevant information for appropriate diagnosis.
CAPTION:
Images of mpox virus. Top photo: King’s College London, Front Page – The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control
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