2023-09-03 22:29:39
“Monkey Smallpox” Cases Rise to 145 in Thailand, Prompting Concerns over Rapid Transmission among Youth
Bangkok, September 3, 2023 – The Department of Disease Control in Thailand reported a significant increase in “Monkey smallpox” cases, with the total number reaching 145 within the span of just one month. Out of these, 316 cases were reported among Thai patients, including a 16-year-old male student. Shockingly, the student had a history of engaging in risky sexual behavior with multiple partners.
Dr. Tares Krassanirawiwong, the Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, announced the latest figures today, highlighting the alarming situation of smallpox in Thailand. As per the data collected until August 31, 2023, the patients included a group of transgender men, with 271 out of 316 cases (85.8%) being related to HIV. Additionally, 143 individuals (45.3%) were found to be HIV-infected. Out of the total cases, 277 patients were Thai nationals, while 36 were foreigners, and 3 cases remained unspecified.
The majority of the cases were concentrated in Bangkok, with 198 individuals affected. Chonburi had 22 cases, Nonthaburi had 17, and Samut Prakan reported 12 cases. The age demographics revealed that most patients fell within the 30-39 years age group, with 152 individuals affected. They were closely followed by individuals aged 20-29, accounting for 85 cases, while the youth age group of 15-24 years saw 28 cases.
Of particular concern was the rapid increase in infections among youth populations. Over the past four months, an outbreak has been observed, with the number of cases rising exponentially. In May, 22 cases were reported, followed by a drastic increase to 2,005 cases in June. The numbers further escalated to 80 in July and 145 in August. Almost all of these cases involved Thai nationals who were infected within the country. Tragically, one smallpox patient with HIV infection and severe symptoms succumbed to the disease.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Thailand has received support from the World Health Organization in the form of the drug Tecovirimat, also known as TPOXX. The medication has been approved for emergency use to treat confirmed patients with severe symptoms, specifically targeting the Poxvirus group. It is administered exclusively in hospital settings.
Dr. Sophon Iamsirithavorn, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, emphasized that the initial stages of monkey pox transmission demonstrated the risk among working-age men. However, in August, an alarming increase of 16 infections among young individuals was observed.
The disease control investigation team, in collaboration with the Chonburi Provincial Public Health Office and local agencies, reported a specific case involving a 16-year-old male student. The student fell ill on August 6 and sought in-patient treatment on August 14, exhibiting clear blisters on his body, including swollen genitalia. Subsequently, a smallpox monkey was detected.
Investigations revealed the student’s history of engaging in high-risk sexual activity with multiple partners. Authorities are currently monitoring individuals who may have had close contact with the student, particularly within his household. Fortunately, as of now, no cases have been reported among the household contacts.
As the smallpox outbreak continues to grip Thailand, health officials are working diligently to curb the transmission and prevent further infections. It is essential for individuals, especially the youth, to practice safe sex and follow all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their partners.
Note: The term “Monkey smallpox” refers to monkeypox, a viral disease that affects humans and other animals.]
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