Prison Inmate With Mpox Dies in Custody

A 44-year-old male inmate infected with mpox has died in custody, the Department of Disease Control confirmed on 14 February 2026. The prisoner, who had multiple underlying conditions, passed away on 11 February after his condition deteriorated despite treatment. Laboratory tests confirmed infection with the Mpox Clade II strain.

Get today's headlines by email

Dr Montien Kanasawad, Director-General of the Department of Disease Control at the Ministry of Public Health, said the inmate had pre-existing illnesses including HIV, hepatitis B and C and syphilis. He had not been receiving continuous treatment, resulting in severe immunodeficiency which contributed to the unusually serious progression of the disease.

The inmate entered prison on 20 January 2026 with a wound on his leg. He later developed a fever and a rash with lesions across his body before being urgently transferred to the Corrections Hospital. Although medical staff provided full treatment, his symptoms worsened and he died on 11 February.

Initial investigations suggest he may have contracted the virus before entering prison. Health officials believe his lack of antiretroviral treatment for HIV significantly weakened his immune system, leading to increased severity.

Following laboratory confirmation, the Department of Disease Control worked with the Department of Corrections and related agencies to implement immediate containment measures. Authorities isolated and monitored 32 close contacts within the same zone and placed a further 14 individuals under observation in related areas.

Prisoner transfers in the affected area were suspended, and temperature checks are being conducted twice daily for 21 days. A large-scale environmental clean-up has been carried out, and infectious waste is being managed under strict standards.

In addition, health authorities are closely monitoring contacts within healthcare settings, particularly medical personnel and staff involved in treatment. Nineteen high-risk individuals have received post-exposure prophylaxis vaccination, while risk assessments are ongoing for more than 80 others.

Dr Niti Hetanurak, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, stated that mpox spreads through close contact with rashes, lesions or bodily fluids, as well as sharing personal items and intimate sexual contact. Common symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches and skin lesions, and anyone experiencing suspected symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.

Officials confirmed that no additional inmates or staff have shown symptoms consistent with the disease. The situation remains under close monitoring, and authorities have urged the public to remain confident in the surveillance and response systems in place.

Amarin reported that The Department of Disease Control said it will continue working with all relevant sectors to prevent wider transmission. Members of the public with concerns can contact the Department of Disease Control hotline on 1422.

Key Takeaways

• A 44-year-old inmate with multiple underlying conditions died from Mpox Clade II on 11 February 2026.

• Authorities are monitoring 46 prison contacts and more than 80 additional individuals, with 19 receiving vaccination.

• No further cases have been detected and the situation is under close control.

Join the discussion?

Already a member?

Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 16 Feb 2026