Singapore has confirmed its first cases of monkeypox infections transmitted domestically, but officials maintain that the risk posed by the virus to society remains low.
On 2 Apr 2026 GMT+7, Singapore's Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) confirmed the first locally acquired monkeypox (mpox) cases, involving two men aged 30 and 34 infected with the "clade 1b" strain, known to be more severe than other strains.
The 30-year-old man, with no recent international travel history, began showing symptoms on 25 Mar and was hospitalized on 30 Mar. The clade 1b infection was confirmed the following day. He has since been discharged but must remain under home isolation until 20 Apr for further clinical evaluation.
The 34-year-old man, who recently traveled abroad and had prolonged close physical contact with the first patient, developed symptoms on 26 Mar and was hospitalized on 31 Mar. His positive test was confirmed on 1 Apr, and he is under home quarantine until 21 Apr.
It is believed both contracted the virus through sexual contact, and their conditions are currently stable.
However, the CDA affirmed that the virus's risk to the wider community remains low, stating, "Since monkeypox primarily spreads through close or prolonged physical contact, including sexual activity, the public risk remains low at this time."
"An ongoing investigation and contact tracing for both patients is underway," the CDA said. "Close contacts have been advised to monitor their health and seek medical attention if symptoms arise. High-risk contacts will be offered the monkeypox vaccine as post-exposure prophylaxis."
The clade 1b strain, typically more severe than clade 2 infections, first appeared in September 2023, initially detected among sex workers in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It was the main strain behind a significant outbreak surge in African countries in 2024.
According to CDA's website, as of 21 Mar, Singapore reported seven monkeypox cases this year. In 2025, there were 23 total reported infections.
Common monkeypox symptoms include rash, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, and swollen lymph nodes. Severe complications or death can occur in immunocompromised individuals.
"Since monkeypox spreads mainly through close, prolonged physical contact including sexual contact, there is currently no recommendation for widespread vaccination of the general public," the CDA stated.
The CDA added that individuals at high risk of exposure can receive vaccination at sexually transmitted infection control clinics. Vaccines will also be available at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID) starting May.
"The public should remain vigilant and take precautions against monkeypox by avoiding high-risk sexual behaviors, such as sex with strangers or multiple partners," the CDA advised. "Travelers to countries with monkeypox outbreaks should regularly wash hands, minimize physical contact with infected individuals, and avoid consuming bushmeat."
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Source:cna