Health authorities in Hong Kong are investigating a cluster of Mpox cases linked to a sauna and fitness club in Mong Kok, as contact tracing efforts continue across the city.
The Centre for Health Protection confirmed that at least five cases have been identified in connection with a venue described as a “premier” gay-friendly sauna on Shanghai Street. The cases include two infections previously reported by mainland Chinese health authorities.
Officials said the individuals involved had engaged in what they described as “high-risk activities with strangers,” though no further details were provided about the nature of the exposure.
The venue, known as Hu-Tong, has been temporarily closed since May 26 as investigators work to identify and notify potential contacts who may have been exposed to the virus.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that spreads through close physical contact, including skin-to-skin contact, respiratory droplets during prolonged interaction, and contact with contaminated materials. Health experts have stressed that transmission risk increases in environments where close or intimate contact occurs.
Authorities in Hong Kong said epidemiological investigations are ongoing, and teams are working to map possible transmission chains linked to the venue. Contact tracing has been expanded to include individuals who may have visited the sauna during the relevant time period.
The cluster has drawn attention because it involves a setting associated with high-density social and intimate contact, which can increase the likelihood of transmission if the virus is present. Public health officials have previously warned that Mpox outbreaks can spread in such environments if precautions are not followed.
While officials have not released detailed patient information, they confirmed that all identified cases are under medical care and being monitored in accordance with public health protocols. Authorities have also urged individuals who may have visited the location or had close contact with confirmed cases to seek medical advice if symptoms appear.
Symptoms of Mpox typically include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. In some cases, lesions may develop on the skin or mucous membranes. Health officials continue to encourage early testing and isolation for anyone who develops symptoms consistent with the virus.
The Centre for Health Protection has not indicated whether additional cases are expected but said surveillance measures have been strengthened in response to the cluster. Medical teams are also coordinating with regional health agencies as part of broader monitoring efforts.
Hong Kong has previously recorded sporadic Mpox cases, often linked to travel or close-contact transmission. Health authorities have repeatedly emphasized that the virus is not spread through casual contact and does not pose the same transmission risk as airborne respiratory illnesses like influenza or COVID-19.
Public health officials say the current investigation highlights the importance of targeted contact tracing and rapid response in containing localized clusters. They also stressed that there is no evidence at this stage of widespread community transmission linked to the sauna outbreak.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are expected to release further updates as more information becomes available and contact tracing efforts progress.
