Monkeypox is now classified as a communicable disease that requires close surveillance.

Screening measures are being raised, even though no cases have been detected in the country so far, the Ministry of Public Health said on Wednesday.

The disease is far less transmissible than the novel coronavirus, he said. "Actually, Thailand has never recorded any cases of monkeypox," said Dr Chakrarat Pittayawonganon of the Department of Disease Control (DDC).

Although most of those who are infected recover quickly, some can experience severe symptoms, he said.

World Health Organization records show there are 131 confirmed cases of monkeypox and 106 suspected cases in 19 countries.

The first test kit for monkeypox is expected to be available two weeks from now.

A Ramathibodi Hospital doctor has called for the strict screening of travellers arriving in Thailand from certain high-risk areas such as parts of southern Europe and Africa.

The DDC is screening international arrivals through the Thailand Pass system, following a rising number of monkeypox infections in several countries.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, meanwhile, issued a warning against the smuggling into Thailand of wild animals.