Malaysia steps up measures to deal with mpox

All travellers arriving from countries that have cases of mpox are required to monitor their health for possible symptoms for a period of 21 days from the date of arrival in Malaysia.

Malaysia's Ministry of Health has stepped up its surveillance efforts and advocacy activities related to the prevention of mpox, following the World Health Organization's declaration that the disease is once again a public health emergency of international concern.

In a statement on 18 August (Sunday), the ministry shared the following:

1. The ministry has increased monitoring at all international ports of entry where all travellers arriving from countries reporting mpox are required to monitor their self-health status daily including symptoms of mpox infection for a period of 21 days from the date of arrival in Malaysia.
2. It continues to advise individuals who have a history of high-risk activities and have symptoms such as rashes or blisters on the skin to immediately undergo an examination at a nearby health facility and avoid contact with other individuals so as to avoid the spread of infection.
3. The ministry is ensuring all medical practitioners in government and private health facilities to immediately notify their nearby District Health office of all suspected cases and confirmed cases of mpox, so that prevention and control measures can be implemented. For mpox case management, medical practitioners are to the refer to the ministry's Guidelines on mpox management in Malaysia 2023.
4. There are now 10 laboratories that conduct PCR tests for verification of symptoms, and this includes two private laboratories. 
5. At-risk environments, such as spas and saunas, have been issued educational materials and engaged via activities to enhance awareness of the disease.
6. The ministry is also ensuring that premises that provide services that involve skin contact with customers, such as spas, massages, and other risky activities would always practise personal and environmental hygiene while also ensuring that no employees or customers in related premises experience symptoms or show signs of mpox such as rashes or blisters on the skin. Any employees or customers who have these symptoms should immediately get a health check-up done.

MOH said it will continue to work with both government and non-government agencies, including private hospitals and clinics, to monitor, detect, and provide relevant care where appropriate. The ministry will also continue to monitor the mpox situation both locally and abroad, and share further updates from time to time.

At the moment, there are no mpox cases detected in Malaysia.