The Ministry of Health has confirmed a new case of monkeypox (mpox) in Malaysia, according to a statement released on Tuesday (Sept 17). The patient, a male citizen, began exhibiting symptoms on Sept 11, including fever, sore throat, and cough. A rash developed the following day on Sept 12.

The ministry clarified that the patient had no recent history of international travel within the 21 days before the onset of symptoms. He is currently in isolation and is reported to be in stable condition.

In response to the detection, authorities have started the process of identifying individuals who may have come into contact with the patient. These contacts will undergo close health monitoring in accordance with the country's strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) to prevent further transmission.

Out of the 58 suspected mpox cases referred to the ministry this year, one case was confirmed as mpox clade II on Sept 16, the Ministry of Health stated. This brings the total number of mpox cases in Malaysia to 10, all belonging to clade II, since the country recorded its first case on July 26 of last year.

The latest confirmed case is the first since November of the previous year. An earlier update on Aug 15 had indicated that nine mpox cases had been detected in Malaysia at that time. The ministry has been actively monitoring the situation and responding to new developments as they occur.

Globally, mpox was declared a public health emergency of international concern for a second time on Aug 14. This declaration was in response to the rapid spread of the clade 1b variant originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring African countries.

In light of this public health emergency, the Health Ministry in Malaysia activated its mpox operations and crisis response center on Aug 16 to better manage and contain the spread of the disease.

The Ministry of Health continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and adhere to health protocols. This includes practicing good hygiene and avoiding close contact with individuals showing symptoms of mpox to minimize the risk of further transmission.

Authorities emphasize the importance of early detection and timely reporting of suspected cases to curb the spread of the virus.

Source: Facebook