Be alert of monkeypox symptoms, says Perak exco

IPOH: Residents in the state are advised to seek immediate treatment at the nearest clinic or hospital if they have monkeypox-like symptoms.

State Human Resources, Health, Indian Community Affairs and National Integration Committee chairman, A. Sivanesan said the symptoms included fever, fatigue, headaches, and a maculopapular rash that starts on the face and spreads to the hands and feet before spreading to other areas of the body.

"This disease is contagious and victims need to be quarantined if positive. I hope the public is cautious and undergoes health screening if they have the stated symptoms," he said at a press conference after launching a public health campaign at Aeon Mall Station 18 here, on Saturday (Aug 26).

On Friday (Aug 25), the Health Ministry confirmed that there were two cases of monkeypox infection in the country.

The first case involved a foreign male, while the second case was a local male who was also in contact with the first monkeypox case. He was confirmed positive for monkeypox on July 29.

There were no reports involving monkeypox disease in the state to date.

To prevent the disease from spreading, the Perak State Health Department had implemented proactive preventive measures, including monitoring high-risk areas such as international entry points, Sivanesan added.

"We monitor everyone at risk, including travellers and tourists. Training is also given to all Health Department staff to ensure they can properly manage mpox cases," he said.

Commenting on the campaign, Sivanesan said that it was organised by Quest International University in collaboration with Perak Health Department.

It aimed to raise awareness among the public, particularly regarding skin care and treatment.

The services offered were free, and the public could participate in activities such as health forums, healthy cooking workshops, among others.

"The effort deserves praise, as it not only offers free services but also provides various health services that are beneficial to the public," he added. - Bernama