BANGKOK, THAILAND – A 44-year-old inmate from Thonburi Special Prison died on 11 February after being infected with Mpox Clade II, health authorities confirmed.
Severe underlying illnesses worsened Mpox infection
The prisoner had several untreated underlying conditions, including HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis, which caused a severe immune deficiency and critically aggravated the course of the disease. After he developed a high fever and widespread skin rash, he was transferred to the Correctional Hospital Institution, where he died on 11 February. Laboratory testing confirmed infection with Mpox Clade II.
Infection likely occurred before incarceration
According to health authorities, the man was believed to have contracted the virus before his imprisonment in January. The incubation period for Mpox was usually one to two weeks but could sometimes be longer. This assessment indicated that the source of infection lay outside the prison and that the inmate brought the virus into the facility only after his incarceration.
46 contacts monitored and 19 given PEP vaccination
Contact tracing identified 46 people, including 32 close contacts in the same prison zone and 14 additional contacts elsewhere, all of whom were being closely monitored. Nineteen high-risk individuals already received post-exposure prophylaxis in the form of vaccination, which, according to the WHO, could reduce the likelihood of illness by up to 80 percent. More than 80 other people underwent a risk assessment.
Strict containment measures inside the prison
The corrections authority immediately introduced comprehensive protective measures and temporarily suspended the movement of inmates in high‑risk areas. All affected zones were conducting temperature checks twice daily for the next 21 days. Surrounding areas were being thoroughly disinfected, and a strict system for disposing of infectious waste was implemented to protect staff and other inmates.
Health authorities say situation under control
The Department of Disease Control (DDC) stated that no further suspected cases had been identified among inmates or staff and that the situation remained under control, though it continued to be closely monitored.
“Preventive and surveillance measures remain in place,”
said a DDC spokesperson.
“All those involved are being continuously observed, and we are prepared for possible further developments.”
Mpox Clade II risk higher for immunocompromised patients
Mpox occurred in two main variants, Clade I and Clade II, and the deceased inmate was infected with Clade II, which generally caused milder courses of disease than Clade I. However, Mpox could lead to severe complications and fatal outcomes in people with weakened immune systems, such as patients with untreated HIV. Transmission took place through close physical contact with infected individuals, contaminated materials, or, during prolonged close contact, via droplets.
Hotlines and guidance for the public
The DDC maintained information hotlines for concerned citizens on 02 590 3859 and 02 590 3386, where people with symptoms or questions about Mpox could receive medical advice. Members of the public worried about infection were urged to observe basic hygiene measures, including regular handwashing, avoiding close physical contact with people who had a skin rash, and wearing a mask in very crowded enclosed spaces when needed. Officials stressed that this was an isolated case in a closed facility, all contacts had been identified and were under observation, there was no increased risk to the general population or tourists, and travel to Thailand remained unrestricted and safe.