Preedee TeoAfter the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared a global public health emergency over the emergence of Mpox, Thailand, on 23 Aug 2024, confirmed a known case of a more dangerous strain of Mpox, creating concerns over the risk of an outbreak.
Also read: Mpox Outbreak in Pakistan: Health Emergency Declared as Cases Rise
New mpox strain confirmed in Thailand
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The patient, a European who arrived in Thailand on 14 Aug from an African country where the disease was spreading, has been quarantined in a hospital, according to Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, head of Thailand’s Department of Disease Control.
The Thai Department of Disease Control has confirmed that the patient has Mpox Clade 1b and they have since informed the World Health Organization. At the moment, the local health authorities are closely monitoring 43 people who had close contact with the patient, and will continue to do so for 21 days even though they have shown no symptoms so far.
Difference between Clade 1 and Clade 2 strains
- Clade 1: Clade I is known for causing more severe illness and higher mortality rates, with some outbreaks resulting in the death of up to 10% of those infected. However, recent outbreaks have shown lower death rates. This variant is native to Central Africa.
- Clade 2: The strain of mpox that caused the global outbreak in 2022 is called Clade II. Infections from this strain are generally milder, with a survival rate of over 99.9%. Clade II is native to West Africa.
What does this mean for travellers heading to Thailand?
Since Thailand’s first case of Mpox, identified as the Clade 2 strain, in 2022, the country has seen roughly 800 total cases. In 2024, there have been 140, according to a spokesperson from Thailand’s Department of Disease Control.
While the risk of an outbreak in Thailand is low at the moment, other neighbouring Southeast Asia countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia are on high alert as they expect the Mpox virus to inevitably reach their shores in the future.
With that said, travellers going to Thailand should be cautious about mingling in crowded places where the risk of exposure is high. Moreover, this is a reminder that they should look after themselves. For instance, wearing a mask when they are sick, and avoiding close physical contact with people. By practising vigilance, visitors can help one another to enjoy their vacation in Thailand responsibly.
How is the virus transmitted
You may contract Mpox through close contact with infected animals or people. Symptoms include fever, muscle pain, and large, painful skin sores.
How to protect yourself from the virus
Avoid close contact with individuals who have a rash resembling Mpox symptoms. Next, refrain from touching clothes, bedding, or other materials that have been in contact with an infected person or animal. Additionally, keep those infected with Mpox separated from healthy individuals. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water after any contact with an infected person or animal. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. Finally, avoid animals that might carry the virus. Furthermore, vaccines for smallpox, such as ACAM2000 and Jynneos, can also help prevent Mpox due to the relatedness of the viruses.
Healthcare professionals may recommend vaccination for those exposed to Mpox or those at risk of exposure through their work, such as laboratory personnel. However, the CDC does not currently advise that everyone receive the mpox vaccine.
Also read: Travel Health Hacks: Top 10 Tips for Staying Healthy While Travelling
While the recent confirmation of a deadlier Mpox strain in Thailand has raised concerns, it’s important to note that the risk of a widespread outbreak remains low. Travellers to Thailand should continue to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas, and practice good hygiene to minimise the risk of infection. By taking these precautions, visitors can enjoy their trip to Thailand without much worry.
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