The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) stated that in January 2025, Thailand reported three confirmed cases of the Mpox Clade I, sublineage Ib virus strain to the World Health Organization (WHO). All cases involved women aged 30 to 40 who developed symptoms while returning to Thailand from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Epidemiological investigations revealed close or sexual contact with confirmed or suspected cases, suggesting a potential risk of Mpox Clade I virus strain transmission in the UAE. Thailand has initiated contact tracing and close monitoring.

The Southeast Asian Songkran Festival will take place in mid-April, attracting tourists worldwide. Given the ongoing global Mpox outbreak, the CDC reminds us that the Mpox vaccine can prevent infections from both Clade I and Clade II virus strains. The vaccine requires two doses, spaced at least four weeks apart, and takes 14 days for full protection. Those engaging in high-risk behaviors should complete vaccination at least six weeks before travel.

The global Mpox outbreak continues to escalate, with approximately 4,800 new cases reported in January, primarily in Africa. Asian countries such as China, Australia, and the Philippines have also reported sporadic cases. From 2022 to January 31, 2025, a total of approximately 125,512 confirmed cases have been recorded globally. Since May 2024, an Ib sublineage outbreak has been reported in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and Burundi. Beyond Africa, cases of the Ib strain have also been reported in the U.S., Canada, China, Thailand, India, Sweden, Germany, the U.K., Belgium, France, Pakistan, Oman, and the UAE. The WHO designated Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on August 14, 2023, and continues to urge countries to prevent cross-border transmission.

The CDC noted that Taiwan classified Mpox as a Category 2 Notifiable Infectious Disease on June 23, 2022. As of February 17, 2025, Taiwan has reported a total of 454 confirmed cases (426 domestic and 28 imported). This year, three new domestic cases have been identified, but no Clade I virus strain cases have been found. However, vigilance against imported cases remains necessary.

The CDC urges individuals eligible for the government-funded Mpox vaccine to get vaccinated, including:

★ Individuals who have engaged in high-risk sexual activities in the past year (e.g., those with multiple sexual partners, sex workers, or individuals engaging in sexual activity at commercial venues).
★ Individuals with a history of sexually transmitted infections (e.g., syphilis, gonorrhea).
★ Individuals whose sexual partners meet any of the above criteria.

It is recommended to complete the two-dose vaccination as soon as possible, as a single dose provides approximately 40% protection, while full vaccination offers up to 90% protection. Currently, 269 designated healthcare facilities across Taiwan provide free vaccinations. For more details, visit the CDC's global information website (https://gov.tw/3SG). Additionally, individuals not eligible for the government-funded program but assessed by a doctor to be at risk&mdashsuch as foreigners without National Health Insurance (NHI) or residence permit, or those planning to travel to high-risk Mpox countries&mdashmay receive self-paid vaccinations at one of eight designated travel medicine hospitals nationwide. More details are available on the CDC website (https://gov.tw/FGF).

The CDC reminds travelers to endemic regions or high-risk environments to take protective measures and avoid close contact with strangers. If symptoms such as skin lesions (rashes, blisters, pustules), fever, chills, headaches, muscle pain, or swollen lymph nodes occur, individuals should wear a mask, seek medical attention immediately, and inform healthcare providers of their travel and contact history. For more information, visit the CDC website (https://www.cdc.gov.tw) or call the epidemic prevention hotline 1922 (0800-001922).Domestic Mpox Cases Increasing, Get Vaccinated for Peace of Mind (Image source: CDC website)