Porto Alegre has confirmed a new case of Mpox in 2026, prompting a renewed public health campaign ahead of the city’s Carnival celebrations. The case, identified as originating outside of Porto Alegre municipality, marks the first confirmed infection of the year in the capital of Rio Grande do Sul state.
The city’s municipal health department, the Secretaria Municipal da Saúde (SMS), reported the case on Monday and immediately reinforced guidance for residents and visitors regarding prevention measures. Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease belonging to the same family as smallpox and is primarily spread through direct contact with skin lesions, respiratory droplets, and saliva, according to the SMS.
This latest case follows 11 confirmed infections in Porto Alegre throughout 2025. The SMS is urging individuals planning to participate in Carnival festivities to first examine their skin for any unusual eruptions, blisters, or sores, particularly in the genital area, mouth, hands, and feet. Those identifying potential symptoms are advised to seek medical attention, wearing a mask and keeping any lesions covered during their visit to a healthcare facility.
During Carnival events, authorities recommend avoiding close or prolonged physical contact with anyone displaying suspicious skin lesions. The SMS also stresses the importance of frequent hand hygiene, utilizing alcohol-based hand sanitizer with a 70% concentration, especially after touching public surfaces, using public transportation, or interacting with others. Sharing personal items such as cups, cutlery, bottles, cigarettes, clothing, and towels is also discouraged.
Masks are recommended in densely crowded areas as an additional layer of protection, particularly if there is active circulation of the virus. Initial symptoms of Mpox can include fever, headache, muscle aches, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes, followed by the appearance of skin lesions. Individuals experiencing these symptoms are advised to seek medical care and self-isolate, avoiding attendance at Carnival events or engaging in close or intimate contact with others.
The SMS reiterated preventative measures including frequent handwashing, avoiding sharing personal objects, and mask usage in crowded settings. The health department did not release details regarding the patient’s identity or specific location of infection outside the municipality.
