MOPH monitors monkeypox, insists it's treatable, recommends ceasing risky behaviors

     The outbreak of Monkeypox was first detected in May 2022 in Central and West Africa before it spread to Europe, North America, and elsewhere. It was primarily transmitted through sexual relations between men, before the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global emergency in July.

     Even though the WHO has since called off the global emergency as the disease has passed its peak, the virus continues to be present everywhere, including the African countries that were the initial source of the virus, where the population still lacks sufficient understanding of the disease. Therefore, global vigilance is still required, despite the revocation of the emergency status.

     The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) is seeking cooperation from all hospitals to be ready for suspected cases or those exhibiting symptoms. Samples should be taken for testing, and patients should be isolated until lab results are known to prevent the virus from spreading. The public is reminded that they can protect themselves from Monkeypox by avoiding close contact with people who have a fever, rash, blisters, or abscesses on their bodies, abstaining from sex, or close contact with strangers or those with unknown histories. Regular hand washing with soap or alcohol gel is crucial, and personal items such as towels should not be shared.

     Monkeypox is generally mild and self-limiting, but can become severe in those with weakened immune systems, chronic diseases, and small children, with a death rate of less than 5%. Symptoms last for about 2-4 weeks. If you have a suspicious rash, raised bumps, clear fluid-filled blisters, abscesses, or scaling sores after a fever, sore throat, headache, or swollen lymph nodes, especially if you have risk factors, you can report your risk history and get tested at the nearest hospital immediately. For more information, call the Disease Control Department hotline at 1422.

Data updated on March 24, 2023.
Source: Public Relations, Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Health, 88/20 Moo 4, Talad Khwan Subdistrict, Mueang District, Nonthaburi 11000
Tel. +66 2590 1000

For more information 1
For more information 2