Inmate died of monkeypox, dept says

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) confirmed the inmate who passed away in Thon Buri Remand Prison last week was infected with monkeypox

- APINYA WIPATAYOTIN

Authorities are now closely monitoring the condition of almost 100 inmates deemed at high risk of catching the disease.

DDC chief, Montien Kanasawat, said the inmate, 44, had several underlying conditions which contributed to the quick progression of the disease, including HIV, hepatitis and syphilis.

The Department of Corrections says the inmate entered Thon Buri Remand Prison on Jan 20.

The man, who had a wound on his leg, then developed a fever and widespread rashes, prompting prison officials to move him to the Corrections Department Hospital for treatment.