GEORGE TOWN: The government has no plans to implement a vaccination programme for Mpox for the people of this country, says Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni.
He said there has been no discussion on the matter so far, but an in-depth study should be conducted if there is a need to implement it.
"We have not discussed this vaccine yet, but if there is a need, we will fully study the requirements regarding Mpox. If we look at the guidelines and the way of infection, it can be avoided by practising personal hygiene and other precautions.
"Usually, the symptoms of Mpox infection can be seen clearly through physical signs such as spots on the body, and the patient can feel the effects," he told reporters after officiating the 34th Malaysia-Thailand Border Health Scientific Conference here on Tuesday (Aug 20).
Commenting further, Lukanisman said that so far no new cases of infection have been recorded in the country, but the ministry is closely monitoring the development of the case and will issue official statements from time to time.
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In addition, he said that for the time being there is no obstacle for the people of this country to travel abroad, but they must always be vigilant and take necessary measures to avoid any infection.
According to him, the government is also implementing strict controls at the country's entry points and border checkpoints as a precautionary measure against the entry of travellers from outside.
"So far, the process we are doing is the same as during the Covid-19 pandemic. All precautionary measures have been taken by the relevant agencies, especially at immigration checkpoints, airports, and the border, and we will refer to them if there is a need," he said.
The Health Ministry previously stated that it is always prepared by strengthening surveillance and advocacy activities related to Mpox, including increasing monitoring at all international entry points.
This follows the declaration by the World Health Organization (WHO) that Mpox is a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) for the second time on Aug 14. – Bernama
