Singapore has recorded local transmission of a mutated monkeypox strain for the first time—signaling the renewed emergence of a potentially dangerous virus in Asia as it continues to spread across Africa.
Two men, aged 30 and 34, are in stable condition after they, according to Singapore’s infectious diseases agency, “likely contracted the virus through sexual contact.” The cases involve the mpox clade Ib strain, which is transmitted primarily through intimate or prolonged close contact. In 2024, it was declared a global public health threat after spreading rapidly across Africa.
This variant of the virus has already been detected in Europe and North America. In China, the first domestic cluster was confirmed in January of last year. Travel from affected regions is increasing the risk of further spread of the infection, which can cause skin rashes, chills, and blisters. Other symptoms include fever and swollen lymph nodes.
Authorities said the men had “prolonged physical contact” with one another, and both reported recent sexual contact, while one had traveled recently. Symptoms emerged in late March, and tests confirmed the virus within a week. They will remain in home isolation until April 20 and 21 and continue to undergo additional medical monitoring. At the same time, epidemiological investigations and contact tracing are underway.
Despite the overall low risk of transmission, the authorities urged the public to avoid “high-risk sexual contact.” Travelers heading to countries where mpox cases have been recorded were advised to limit physical contact with infected individuals and to “avoid consuming bushmeat,” as the virus can be transmitted from animals to humans.