BANGKOK, THAILAND – Health authorities in the Thai capital intensified Mpox surveillance and ordered all city hospitals to swiftly detect, isolate and report suspected cases.
City hospitals under strict Mpox screening orders
The director of the Medical Service Department, Kriengkrai Tangjitramaneesakda, said the agency had required all hospitals under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to actively check patients in emergency rooms and outpatient clinics for Mpox symptoms. Specialized facilities, including clinics for sexually transmitted infections, dermatology and HIV treatment, were also placed on heightened alert and had to register suspected cases immediately and report them under fixed protocols.
Central lab testing and designated Mpox control center
According to Kriengkrai, all potential Mpox cases were to be sent for laboratory diagnostics to the Urban Disease Prevention and Control Institute.
“Suspected cases are examined without delay in order to prevent a spread as early as possible.”
said Kriengkrai, director of the Medical Service Department. Sirindhorn Hospital was designated as a center for controlling newly emerging infectious diseases and was tasked with closely monitoring and steering the Mpox situation in the capital.
Isolation protocols and reporting to top health authorities
Patients with relevant symptoms at Sirindhorn Hospital were to be isolated immediately and reported to senior health authorities and the Ministry of Public Health. People who had been in close contact with presumed infected individuals—such as within one meter without a mask or while caring for the sick—were urged to monitor themselves carefully for 21 days. Anyone noticing symptoms was advised to seek medical attention at once.
Warning signs for potential Mpox infection
Authorities listed several warning signs for possible Mpox infection, including rashes, blisters or pustules in the genital or anal area. Other red flags included rashes on the hands, feet, chest, face or in the mouth, fever, and swollen lymph nodes behind the ears, on the neck or in the groin. These symptoms were highlighted as reasons to contact a doctor immediately.
Higher risk for people with pre-existing conditions
Kriengkrai pointed out that people with weakened immune systems or pre-existing illnesses faced a significantly higher risk of severe disease, including pneumonia or even death. He stressed that suspected cases would be consistently isolated and reported in line with established guidelines.
“Wearing a mask can significantly reduce the risk of infection,”
said Kriengkrai, referring to personal protective measures.
Public prevention campaign and behavior guidelines
In parallel, the department launched an information campaign on prevention measures for the general public. Residents were urged to avoid close physical contact with people outside their household and not to share food or personal items. The campaign also called on people to practice safer sex and to watch for signs of illness among their contacts.
Vaccination advice and target groups
On vaccination, the authority stated that previous smallpox immunization could reduce the risk of Mpox infection. However, vaccination was recommended only for people with occupational risk or those with close contact to infected persons or animals. The shot could be administered up to 14 days after exposure, according to the guidance.
Access to care and telemedicine options
People with symptoms were able to seek treatment at one of the 24 Bangkok Gender Diversity Health Clinics. They could also obtain medical advice via the telemedicine application “Doctor BMA”, which connected users to city health services. In addition, the municipal health hotline 1646 was available around the clock to provide information on Mpox and related health concerns.