Russia investigates suspected monkeypox outbreak near Moscow

Russian health authorities have launched an epidemiological investigation and implemented comprehensive anti-epidemic measures following a suspected monkeypox outbreak in the Moscow Region, officials announced on October 15.

According to a public statement released by the Federal Service for Oversight of Consumer Protection and Welfare (Rospotrebnadzor), five people who came into contact with a suspected monkeypox carrier have been hospitalized for medical observation and diagnostic testing.

The Moscow Region Ministry of Health confirmed that all five patients are in satisfactory condition and show no pronounced clinical symptoms. Authorities said emergency containment measures, including contact tracing, laboratory testing and widespread disinfection, were implemented immediately.

Rospotrebnadzor said health officials are using advanced diagnostic systems developed in-house to ensure the rapid detection of the virus. While testing is underway, officials emphasized that no new cases have been confirmed.

This development follows earlier reported cases in the area. In February 2026, health authorities confirmed a monkeypox case in Domodedovo. A close contact was subsequently hospitalized, and two tourists returning to St. Petersburg from Thailand were later diagnosed with the disease.

Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease. Initial symptoms in humans include fever, headaches, muscle aches, back pain and swollen lymph nodes. These may be followed by extensive rashes on the face and body. While most infected people recover within a few weeks, some may develop severe illness or die.