Singapore reports first two locally transmitted mpox cases, public risk assessed as low

Singapore has recorded its first instances of local transmission involving the clade Ib variant of the mpox virus.

According to a statement by the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) on 02 April 2026, the infections involve two men.

The patients, aged 30 and 34, are currently reported to be in stable condition.

CDA officials believe both individuals were infected through sexual contact. This development marks a significant shift in the local epidemiology of the zoonotic viral disease.

Details of the first case

The 30-year-old patient had no recent history of travel outside the country. He first developed symptoms on 25 March 2026 and was admitted to hospital on 30 March 2026.

His clade Ib infection was formally confirmed the following day.

This patient has since been discharged from medical facilities.

He is currently serving a period of home isolation until 20 April 2026.

His status remains subject to further clinical review by health authorities to ensure public safety.

Second case linked through contact

The second patient, a 34-year-old man, recently travelled and had prolonged physical contact with the first case.

He began experiencing symptoms on 26 March 2026 and sought medical attention on 31 March 2026.

His infection was confirmed on 01 April 2026.

This individual has been placed under home isolation until 21 April 2026.

CDA confirmed that investigations and contact tracing efforts are currently ongoing for both cases.

Close contacts have been advised to monitor their health for potential symptoms.

High-risk contacts will be recommended for mpox vaccination as a form of post-exposure prophylaxis.

Despite the emergence of the clade Ib strain, CDA maintains that the risk to the general public remains low.

Transmission patterns and public advisory

The agency noted that transmission predominantly occurs through intimate or prolonged physical contact.

This includes sexual contact, which is the primary driver of current infections. Consequently, population-wide vaccination is not recommended at this stage.

Mpox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, traditionally found in Central and West Africa.

It is categorised into two distinct clades.

Clade Ib first emerged in September 2023 in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

This specific strain is typically more severe than clade II infections.

It was responsible for a significant surge in cases across African nations throughout 2024.

Clade Ib has since been detected globally, primarily through travel-related transmission.

Symptoms and health risks

Common symptoms associated with the virus include a rash, fever, headache, and muscle aches.

Patients may also experience backaches and swollen lymph nodes.

While generally self-limiting, the disease can cause serious complications in medically vulnerable individuals.

Prior to these confirmed cases, CDA data indicated seven mpox infections had occurred this year as of 21 March 2026.

This follows a relatively quiet period in 2025, where only four cases were reported throughout the entire year.

Vaccine availability and rollout plans

For those in high-risk categories, vaccines are available at several locations.

These include the Department of Sexually Transmitted Infections Control Clinic and the Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic.

Facilities like Dr Jay Medical Centre and Anteh Dispensary also provide doses.

The National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID) is scheduled to begin offering the vaccine from May.

Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant. Protective measures include avoiding high-risk sexual activities and maintaining good hygiene.

Travellers to affected regions are advised to reduce physical contact with unwell persons.

The consumption of bushmeat should also be avoided.

The virus can spread from animals to humans through bites, scratches, or handling infected animal products.

The CDA continues to monitor the situation as part of its public health mandate.