Health Ministry Monitors Mpox Outbreak Following Songkran Festival, 48 Confirmed Cases Reported Predominantly in Males
Thailand's health ministry has confirmed 48 mpox cases in 2025, with most patients being men aged 18-39, and warns of potential additional cases following Songkran festival travel as the virus's incubation period extends up to 21 days.
On May 7, 2025, Dr. Montatip Kanjasawasdi, Director-General of the Department of Disease Control under the Ministry of Public Health, announced heightened surveillance for mpox (Mpox), particularly the Clade Ib variant, following the holiday tourism season. The department has observed an increase in cases linked to travel and activities during the festival period. With an incubation period of approximately 5-21 days, additional cases may gradually emerge during this phase, and cluster outbreaks could occur in some areas. Contact tracing may be incomplete in certain cases, necessitating a dual approach of symptom monitoring and personal prevention measures.
According to the latest data as of May 3, 2025, Thailand has confirmed 48 mpox cases in 2025, consisting of 43 cases of Clade II and 5 cases of Clade Ib. The majority of patients are male, aged 18-39 years, with sexual contact being the primary transmission route. The overall situation remains manageable but requires continuous vigilance.
Dr. Montatip emphasized that mpox transmits through close contact with infected individuals, particularly through contact with rashes or pustules, body fluids, or prolonged close proximity. He urged both Thai and foreign tourists to maintain proper health practices, avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals, maintain personal hygiene, and reduce risky behaviors to minimize infection and disease spread.
Symptoms to watch for include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and rashes or pustules on the body. Anyone experiencing these symptoms, especially after recent activities or travel, should seek medical consultation and inform their doctor of relevant travel history.
Dr. Montatip reiterated that while the Clade Ib mpox strain requires continuous monitoring and the overall situation remains under control, risks persist during the disease's incubation period. He stressed the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration in prevention and symptom monitoring to reduce transmission and maintain public health confidence.
The Department of Disease Control is actively conducting public awareness campaigns on mpox prevention through various channels and distributing condoms to prevent sexually transmitted infections. The department has also prepared surveillance, screening, and treatment systems while coordinating with relevant agencies for effective disease control. For inquiries, the public can contact the Disease Control Department hotline at 1422.
