Mpox Cases Rise in São Paulo State, Brazil – February 2026 Update

Health officials in Mongaguá, a coastal city in São Paulo, Brazil, are investigating two suspected cases of mpox, as of February 26, 2026. Samples have been sent to the Adolfo Lutz Institute (IAL), the state’s reference laboratory, with results expected within four business days. This comes as the Baixada Santista region has already confirmed two cases in Santos.

Current Situation in São Paulo State

As of February 2026, the São Paulo State government reports 59 confirmed cases of mpox, along with one probable case and 162 cases currently under investigation [1]. Two confirmed cases were identified in Santos. This represents an increase compared to the same period in 2025, when 126 cases were recorded statewide (79 in January and 47 in February).

Case Details

One patient from Mongaguá was initially admitted to the Central Emergency Room on February 26th and subsequently transferred to Hospital Emílio Ribas in Guarujá, a specialized infectious disease facility, due to the severity of the lesions. The second patient is currently isolating at home, under daily monitoring by the municipal Epidemiological Surveillance team. Health authorities are conducting clinical monitoring and contact tracing in accordance with established protocols.

About Mpox

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is an infection caused by the Mpox virus, which belongs to the orthopoxvirus family, the same family as the smallpox virus. Initial symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. These may be followed by a rash characterized by progressive lesions that start as red spots, develop into blisters, become yellowish, and eventually form scabs. Lesions can appear on the face, genital region, palms, feet, and mucous membranes. Severe cases can involve neurological and ocular complications.

Transmission and Prevention

Transmission of mpox occurs through direct physical contact with lesions, bodily fluids (saliva, blood, semen), or contaminated objects. Respiratory droplet transmission is less common. The incubation period can range from a few days to three weeks. Isolation is recommended until all lesions have completely healed to prevent further spread.

Individuals at higher risk include men who have sex with men, people living with HIV/AIDS, those with weakened immune systems, young children, and pregnant women.

Vaccination is the most effective preventative measure and is available through the SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) for individuals over 18 who meet specific criteria, including those living with HIV/AIDS, PrEP users, and healthcare professionals with potential exposure to the virus.

Treatment

Currently, there are no specific treatments for mpox that have demonstrated significant effectiveness. Treatment focuses on supportive care to manage symptoms.

Ongoing Monitoring and Response

The São Paulo State Department of Health (SES-SP) is continuously monitoring the epidemiological situation and coordinating with municipal health departments to ensure early identification, notification, investigation, testing, clinical monitoring, and contact tracing. The IAL plays a crucial role as the state’s reference laboratory in confirming diagnoses.

Authorities advise individuals experiencing skin lesions, accompanied by symptoms like fever, body pain, or swollen lymph nodes, to avoid contact with others and seek evaluation from an infectious disease specialist.