Thai prison officials have reported a possible case of monkeypox (Mpox) in a male inmate, according to a February 14, 2026, report from the Department of Corrections. The inmate was admitted to the Thonburi Special Prison on January 20, 2026, and subsequently developed concerning symptoms.
The inmate began experiencing a high fever and tissue necrosis in his feet, prompting transfer to the Thonburi Hospital Prison for further medical evaluation. Although doctors prepared to treat the foot lesions, they observed additional abnormalities – clear blisters appearing on the feet alongside the persistent fever. These symptoms raised suspicion for Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox.
Preliminary laboratory testing suggests the inmate may be infected with the virus. This finding is particularly significant for public health as it signals the potential for localized outbreaks and the need for swift containment measures.
Upon identifying the potential risk, the Department of Corrections, in collaboration with Thonburi Special Prison, Thonburi Hospital Prison, and the Ministry of Public Health, immediately escalated preventative measures to the highest level. These measures include:
1. Isolation: High-risk inmates have been separated from the general prison population.
2. Bubble and Seal: A containment strategy limiting movement within Thonburi Special Prison has been implemented to curb potential spread.
3. Enhanced Screening: Modern inmates are undergoing rigorous screening, including detailed medical histories and symptom observation for fever, sore throat, headache, muscle pain, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, and the presence of clear blisters, pus-filled sores, or scabs on the body.
As of the latest reports, the Department of Corrections confirms no other inmates have shown symptoms or tested positive for the virus. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and maintaining strict surveillance.
The Department of Corrections has issued directives to all prisons and correctional facilities nationwide, instructing them to strictly adhere to the diagnosis, care, and prevention guidelines for Mpox as outlined by the Department of Disease Control. Any suspected cases among inmates must be promptly reported to the Department of Corrections and coordinated with local hospital networks for rapid disease control.
