New mpox variant discovered in Thailand

Thailand
First case of new mpox in Thailand

Nelly Kronstrand

Updated 13.13 | Published 12.25

The new mpox variant clade 1 is more infectious than previous virus strain. Photo: Moses Sawasawa/AP

First case of mpox clade 1 has been confirmed in Thailand.

Last week, a case of the more contagious variant was discovered in Sweden.

The WHO has declared a global health crisis due to outbreaks in several African countries.

During Thursday, a case of the mpox virus was discovered in Thailand.

According to Bloomberg, the patient who tested positive for clade 1 is a man from  Europe. The man traveled to Bangkok via Africa last week, according to Thailand's Ministry of Health.

At least 43 people have been in contact with the man and risk being infected. Hence, the authorities keep these people under surveillance.

The man who fell ill was treated in hospital the day after he arrived in the city.

Bangkok, Thailand. Photo: Getty Images

The Mpox virus has spread rapidly in Africa, including in countries such as Congo-Kinshasa, Rwanda, Burundi, Kenya and Uganda.

Last week, the first case of the virus was confirmed in Sweden. Then the Public Health Agency and the government held a press conference.

           

          Photo: AP