Thailand has announced that all arrivals from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will be subject to mandatory quarantine, even if they show no symptoms of illness. The measure, reported by the Asia News Network, is part of heightened surveillance to prevent the spread of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox).
The decision comes amid a global rise in mpox cases, with the DRC experiencing a significant outbreak. According to the World Health Organization, as of May 2026, the DRC has reported over 20,000 suspected cases and more than 1,000 deaths since the beginning of the year. Thailand's Ministry of Public Health confirmed the quarantine policy on May 24, 2026.
Travelers from the DRC will be required to undergo a 21-day quarantine at designated facilities. Health officials will monitor them for symptoms, including fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. Those who develop symptoms will be tested for mpox and isolated if necessary.
Thailand has not reported any mpox cases linked to travel from the DRC as of May 25, 2026. The country previously implemented similar measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. The quarantine rule applies to all passengers, regardless of vaccination status or negative test results.
Experts emphasize that mpox spreads through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials. The WHO recommends avoiding contact with sick people and practicing good hygiene. Thailand's proactive approach aims to prevent local transmission and protect public health.
