The Singapore Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) has confirmed two cases of mpox clade Ib infection in Singapore. Both are very likely infected through sexual activities, and are in stable condition.
History on the two cases are as follows:
The first case is a 30-year-old male with no recent travel history, who reported having sexual contact recently. He developed symptoms on 25 March 2026 and was admitted to hospital on 30 March. On 31 March, laboratory testing confirmed infection with mpox clade Ib. The case is in a stable condition and has since been discharged. He has been placed on home isolation until 20 April, pending further clinical review.
The second case is a 34-year-old male who reported recent travel history and sexual contact. He had prolonged physical contact with the first case recently. He developed symptoms on 26 March 2026 and sought medical care on 31 March. Laboratory testing confirmed infection with mpox clade Ib on 1 April. His condition is stable, and he has been placed on home isolation until 21 April, pending further clinical review.
Investigations and contact tracing are ongoing for both cases.
Mpox is predominantly transmitted through intimate or prolonged physical contact, including sexual contact. Population-wide vaccination is therefore not recommended.
As mpox is predominantly transmitted through intimate or prolonged physical contact, including sexual contact, the risk to the general public is currently low.
Mpox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. There are two distinct clades of the virus: clade I (with subclades Ia and Ib) and clade II (with subclades IIa and IIb). Mpox is predominantly reported in parts of Central Africa (for clade I) and West Africa (for clade II) where it is endemic. Mpox clade IIb has been circulating at low levels globally since 2022 while mpox clade Ib has been detected primarily in travel-related cases worldwide since 2024, with some countries beyond Africa reporting community transmission.
The public should remain vigilant and protect themselves from mpox by avoiding high-risk sexual activities, such as engaging in casual sex or having multiple sexual partners. In addition, travellers to countries affected by mpox should practise good hand hygiene, reduce physical contact with persons who are unwell and avoid consumption of bushmeat. Travellers should seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms such as fever or rash within 21 days from their return. They should inform the doctor of their travel and exposure history.