TAINAN (TVBS News) — Tainan City Government's Public Health Bureau (台南市衛生局) reported on Sunday (Aug. 18) that the city has confirmed three cases of mpox (M痘) this year as of Aug. 16, adding that all cases involved individuals who had close contact with unspecified persons.
Following the World Health Organization's (WHO, 世界衛生組織) declaration that the mpox outbreak is a public health emergency of international concern on Aug. 14, Tainan's Public Health Bureau stated in a press release that the three confirmed cases are all Taiwanese men exhibiting symptoms such as fever, blisters, and pustules.
The bureau explained that mpox primarily spreads through human-to-human transmission, particularly via close contact with the rashes, scabs, or bodily fluids of infected individuals. Intimate contact, including sexual activity, is a significant transmission route. The incubation period ranges from 1 to 21 days, with the rash phase being the most infectious.
Officials urged the public to wear masks and seek medical attention promptly if they exhibit suspected symptoms. They should inform doctors of their travel history, exposure to high-risk environments, and contact history to facilitate diagnosis and treatment.
The bureau also highlighted the rising international mpox cases and advised travelers to high-risk countries or areas to practice self-protection. They recommended avoiding close contact with unspecified individuals and refraining from interacting with or consuming wild animals during travel.
Vaccination remains the most effective prevention method for mpox. The bureau encouraged eligible individuals to complete the two-dose vaccination series for full protection. Tainan City offers vaccination services at 12 partner hospitals and 37 district health centers.