Thailand's health agency warns of rising Mpox and deadly bacterial infections

Thailand's Department of Disease Control (DDC) issued two public‑health alerts. First, Mpox cases have surged since June, with 139 confirmed infections and two deaths this year. The dominant strain is Clade Ib, accounting for 88 of the cases and overtaking Clade II. Most patients are men (135), average age 36, and are concentrated in Bangkok and nearby tourist areas. Seventy‑six of the infected are HIV‑positive, and both fatalities were HIV patients. DDC urges people with weakened immunity, children, pregnant women and cancer patients to avoid close contact, practice strict hygiene and consider vaccination with JYNNEOS.

Second, the agency warned of a sharp rise in rainy‑season bacterial diseases. Since January 2026 Thailand has recorded 2,190 leptospirosis cases (30 deaths) and 1,654 melioidosis cases (77 deaths), together exceeding 100 fatalities. The illnesses predominantly affect farmers and older adults exposed to standing water or mud. DDC advises wearing rubber boots, protecting skin cuts and seeking prompt medical care for fever.