PETALING JAYA: Malaysia has recorded nine monkeypox (mpox) cases to date since the first case was detected on July 26, 2023, with the last one in November the same year.
The Health Ministry said all the cases reported had a history of high-risk activities and had recovered with no deaths reported.
“Based on our monitoring, no new imported mpox cases have been reported,” the ministry said in a statement Thursday (Aug 15).
The ministry has advised those travelling to countries with reported mpox cases to practise a healthy lifestyle and avoid risky activities.
“Furthermore, they are advised to monitor their health status daily, including signs of any mpox infection, within 21 days of returning from these countries.
“Those involved in high-risk activities are advised to undergo examination at the nearest health facility.
“Medical practitioners can refer to the mpox management guidelines on the Health Ministry’s official website at www.moh.gov.my.”
The ministry said it will continue to monitor the mpox situation both domestically and internationally and will provide updates as necessary.
Mpox is an infection caused by the mpox virus, a species within the Orthopoxvirus genus. Infection can occur between individuals in close contact, with symptoms such as rash or blisters on the skin being signs of the infection.
Infection can also occur through respiratory fluids during intimate relations.
