With the rise of mpox infections happening globally, with the World Health Organisation declaring it as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) for a second time, the Ministry of Health (MOH) will now begin increasing its surveillance at the country's international arrival entry points.

In a statement made today, the MOH announced that all travellers from countries with confirmed reports of the virus are now required, prior 21 days from arrival to Malaysia, to monitor their health daily, including symptoms for any infections. For those with a potential history of risky activities and rash like symptoms are required to avoid contact with others to avoid further spreading of the virus and to undergo a check at a health facility

The ministry also requested that all medical practitioners in government and private facilities who detect any suspected or confirmed cases of mpox, must be reported to district health offices to ensure that control measures are implemented and to establish prevention, as well as a reminder that they are able to refer to the 2023 guidelines on mpox management in Malaysia on the ministry's website.

MOH have ensured that laboratories are are currently conducting tests, with 10 laboratories conducting PCR tests for verification purposes, which includes 2 private labs. They have also guaranteed they are taking the relevent steps to enhance any and all mpox awareness activities, collaborating with NGO's for distribution of educational materials to high-risk groups, including identified locations such as spas and saunas. 

Another further step the ministry is taking, is to ensure that premises providing services involving skin contact with customers, including spas, massage parlours and other high-risk activities are practicing personal hygiene and making sure that their surroundings are kept clean and that their customers do not show any symptoms of mpox. 

"If customers or workers show symptoms, they must get a health checkup immediately," the ministry said.

Mpox was previously declared as a PHEIC for the first time on July 23, 2022, with the status then repealed on May 11, 2023.

(Source : Bernama)