
New Strain Detected in Thailand
Thailand has detected the new, mutated strain of monkeypox virus, adding to the growing list of countries affected by the outbreak. The patient, a European male who arrived in Bangkok from Africa, tested positive for the Clade Ib variant, which has been spreading rapidly through close contact.
This development comes shortly after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the monkeypox outbreak a global public health emergency. Since then, cases have been reported in numerous countries, raising concerns about the virus's potential for wider transmission.
Clade Ib is a new offshoot of the Clade I virus, first identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2023. This variant is particularly concerning due to its increased virulence and transmissibility. Studies are ongoing to understand its properties and potential impact.
Scientists have also noted that Clade Ib is more challenging to detect, as it primarily targets the genitals instead of the hands or chest, as seen in earlier cases. This makes early identification and isolation of infected individuals more difficult.
The current monkeypox outbreak is primarily concentrated in Africa, with 14 countries reporting over 14,000 cases and 524 deaths. The Clade Ib strain is responsible for this surge, with a mortality rate of approximately 3.6%, particularly affecting children.
Outside of Africa, Pakistan has also reported a dozen cases, with four confirmed through laboratory testing. Globally, over 1,854 confirmed cases have been reported during the first half of 2024, with the Democratic Republic of Congo accounting for 95% of these cases.
Monkeypox is a viral infection that primarily affects humans and animals. It typically begins with flu-like symptoms, followed by the development of pus-filled lesions. The disease can last for 2 to 4 weeks and can be transmitted through contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials.
Prevention measures include avoiding sexual contact with unfamiliar individuals, close contact with those exhibiting rashes or lesions, frequent hand washing, and not sharing personal items.
If infected with monkeypox, isolation at home in a separate room from family and pets is recommended until the rash and scabs have healed. In severe cases, antiviral drugs like cidofovir or tecovirimat may be prescribed. These drugs are approved for other viral infections, but further research is needed to determine their effectiveness against monkeypox.