KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has recorded 10 cases of monkeypox (mpox) over the past two years, says Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
"Nine cases occurred last year and one was reported on Sept 16 this year," he said in a parliamentary written reply to Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail (PH-Bandar Tun Razak) on Wednesday (Oct 16).
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"There have been no deaths due to mpox reported so far.
"The number of cases remains low, and the Health Ministry is continuing surveillance and detection activities, while monitoring the latest developments related to the disease in other countries and our neighbours," he added.
He said symptoms are typically mild and those infected can recover on their own without requiring specialised treatment.
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Antiviral therapy will only be provided if the infection is severe, and upon the advice of medical experts, he added.
He said the authorities are prepared to administer Tecovirimat antiviral treatment or the MVA-BN vaccine in line with international guidelines set by the World Health Organisation and regulatory bodies.
The vaccine will be used for both primary preventive (pre-exposure) vaccination of high-risk individuals, as well as post-exposure preventive vaccination for close contacts of confirmed cases, he added.
Dzulkefly stressed the importance of preventive measures such as maintaining good hygiene, avoiding contact with symptomatic individuals, and seeking immediate medical care if symptoms develop.
