Thailand Reports First Case of Mpox Clade 1b from Europe

Thailand has confirmed its first case of the new and more dangerous strain of mpox, known as Clade 1b, marking the first instance in Asia and the second outside Africa. A 66-year-old man tested positive after traveling from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to Bangkok on August 14. Health authorities reported that the patient sought medical attention the following day after exhibiting symptoms consistent with mpox. The Department of Disease Control is now monitoring 43 passengers who were in close proximity to the infected individual during the flight. The DRC is currently experiencing a significant outbreak of mpox, with over 17,000 cases and more than 500 deaths reported this year. The emergence of Clade 1b, which has a higher fatality rate, has raised alarms globally, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a public health emergency. The strain is believed to spread through close contact, including sexual transmission, and can also be transmitted via shared items like towels and bedding. In response to the growing threat, health officials in Thailand and other countries are ramping up surveillance and preventive measures. The Philippines and Malaysia have also reported new cases and are implementing health monitoring protocols for travelers from affected regions. The WHO has urged for increased vaccine production to combat the spread of mpox, particularly in areas experiencing outbreaks. As the situation develops, health authorities are emphasizing the importance of awareness and vigilance regarding mpox symptoms, especially in regions with reported cases.