PETALING JAYA: The government does not plan to introduce an immunisation programme against mpox yet despite the disease being declared a global public health emergency again by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Deputy health minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni said there were no plans at present, adding that there have been no recent cases of mpox in Malaysia.
However, he said, the ministry is monitoring the situation, Bernama reported.
On Sunday, the ministry said it will increase surveillance at international entry points while travellers from countries with reported mpox cases need to monitor for symptoms of mpox infection for 21 days after arriving in Malaysia.
Those with a history of risky activities and symptoms like rashes need to undergo a check at nearby health facilities immediately and avoid contact with other people to prevent the disease from spreading.
Mpox was declared a global public health emergency for the first time on July 23, 2022 and the status was rescinded on May 11, 2023.
Malaysia had reported nine mpox cases from June to November 2023.
On Aug 14, WHO again declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern after an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo since January, largely involving children.
More than 500 people have reportedly died from mpox in that country.
