Asia's First Case of New Deadlier Mpox Strain Confirmed in Thailand

Photo : Reuters

New Delhi: Thailand has confirmed Asia’s first known case of the more dangerous mpox Clade 1b strain. This strain was detected in a 66-year-old European patient who arrived in Bangkok on August 14. The patient had previously traveled from Africa to the United Kingdom before reaching Thailand.

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The Department of Disease Control in Thailand conducted multiple lab tests to confirm the presence of mpox Clade 1b in the patient. In an official statement, the department noted, "Thailand's Department of Disease Control wishes to confirm the lab test result which shows mpox Clade 1b in a European patient."

The department also reported that 43 individuals who had close contact with the patient are being closely monitored. As of now, none of these contacts have shown symptoms, but the monitoring will continue for a full 21 days to ensure no further spread.

Since 2022, Thailand has recorded around 800 cases of mpox Clade 2, but this is the first detection of the Clade 1b strain in Asia.

In response to the new strain, India is taking precautionary measures. The All India Institute for Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has issued guidelines for handling suspected cases of mpox. Government hospitals in Delhi are setting up isolation rooms for suspected and confirmed cases. Authorities at airports, ports, and borders, particularly with Bangladesh and Pakistan, are on high alert for any symptoms indicative of the virus.

What Is Mpox? Mpox, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. Symptoms include a painful rash, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. While most individuals recover fully, some may experience severe illness.

How Does the Virus Spread? Mpox spreads through close physical contact, including kissing or sexual contact. Pregnant individuals can transmit the virus to their unborn child. Those with weakened immune systems, such as individuals with HIV, are at higher risk for complications.

Prevention The WHO advises that mpox can be prevented by avoiding physical contact with infected individuals. Vaccination is recommended for those at risk to prevent infection.