Bangkok:Thailand is currently monitoring the situation regarding monkeypox, also known as Mpox, with the Department of Medical Services issuing advisories on symptoms and transmission to raise public awareness. Individuals are urged to seek medical evaluation if they exhibit any symptoms or have been exposed to high-risk environments to prevent the spread of infection.

According to Thai News Agency, the Institute of Dermatology has detailed that monkeypox can spread through close contact, particularly with rashes, blisters, sores, or mucous membranes of infected individuals. The public is encouraged to understand the disease's transmission methods and symptoms to detect any abnormalities early and seek appropriate diagnosis.

Dr. Punwis Suthikulnaset, a specialist physician, highlighted the typical incubation period for monkeypox as 3-17 days, extending up to 21 days. Common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, enlarged lymph nodes, and skin rashes or blisters. However, some patients might present with only a few symptoms or localized rashes.

The Department of Medical Services emphasizes that smallpox can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person, sexual intercourse, kissing, and skin-to-skin contact. It can also spread through contaminated items like towels and bedding or respiratory secretions. Condoms may reduce the risk of some sexually transmitted infections but do not fully prevent monkeypox transmission.

Dr. Veerawat Ukranan, Director of the Institute of Dermatology, noted that diagnosing monkeypox involves thorough medical history and symptom assessment, along with PCR testing of skin or mucous membrane lesions. Some patients may not display swollen lymph nodes, so their absence should not rule out monkeypox. Testing for other sexually transmitted infections may be advisable if lesions are present in the genital or anal areas. The public is urged to remain vigilant and seek medical diagnosis if skin abnormalities or potential monkeypox exposure occur.