The Malaysian Ministry of Health (MOH) is bolstering its preparedness in response to the World Health Organization's (WHO) recent declaration of mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) for the second time on August 14, 2024. This declaration emphasizes the growing global concern over the spread of the mpox virus, particularly with the emergence of a new strain, clade 1b, which has been rapidly spreading in parts of Africa.
Heightened Surveillance at International Entry Points
In line with WHO’s declaration, Malaysia is intensifying its surveillance efforts, particularly at all international entry points. The MOH has mandated that all travelers arriving from countries with reported mpox cases must monitor their health daily for 21 days following their arrival. This includes being vigilant for symptoms commonly associated with mpox, such as skin rashes and blisters.
Travelers are urged to seek immediate medical attention if they develop any symptoms, as early detection and isolation are crucial in preventing the spread of the virus. The MOH’s proactive stance reflects its commitment to safeguarding public health and preventing any potential outbreak within the country.
Public Health Advisory and Clinical Notifications
The Ministry has issued a public health advisory, particularly targeting individuals with a history of high-risk activities. Those experiencing symptoms like rashes or blisters are strongly advised to seek immediate medical examination at the nearest healthcare facility. Furthermore, they are encouraged to avoid close contact with others to minimize the risk of transmission.
Healthcare professionals, both in government and private facilities, have been instructed to promptly report any suspected or confirmed mpox cases to the nearest District Health Office. This measure is critical for enabling timely intervention, including the implementation of necessary prevention and control strategies.
Preparedness of Diagnostic Laboratories
Malaysia’s readiness to handle a potential outbreak is further supported by the availability of diagnostic laboratories equipped to conduct polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, which are essential for confirming mpox diagnoses. The MOH has confirmed that there are currently 10 laboratories, including two private labs, capable of conducting these tests.
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| Mpox strain (source:WHO) |
In addition to testing capabilities, the Ministry is working to raise public awareness about mpox, particularly among high-risk groups. This includes distributing educational materials and collaborating with non-governmental organizations to reach at-risk populations, such as those frequenting spas and saunas, where skin-to-skin contact is more likely.
Ensuring Hygiene in High-Risk Premises
The MOH has also placed emphasis on maintaining hygiene standards in premises that involve skin-to-skin contact with customers, such as spas and massage parlors. These establishments are required to ensure that both staff and clients are symptom-free before providing services. The Ministry has advised that any individual displaying symptoms like rashes or blisters should seek medical attention immediately.
These efforts are part of a broader strategy to prevent any potential spread of the virus within Malaysia, particularly in environments where close contact is common.
Collaboration with Government and Non-Governmental Agencies
The Ministry of Health is committed to a collaborative approach in its response to the mpox threat. It continues to work closely with various government agencies and non-governmental organizations, as well as public and private healthcare providers, to monitor, detect, and manage mpox cases effectively. This coordinated effort is crucial in ensuring that all potential cases are promptly identified and managed, thereby reducing the risk of a widespread outbreak.
The Ministry also remains vigilant in monitoring the global situation, particularly in regions where mpox is spreading rapidly. This includes the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has reported a significant increase in cases, with over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths in 2024 alone. The MOH is also keeping a close eye on the situation in East Africa, where countries like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda have reported mpox cases for the first time.
Global Context and Malaysia’s Response
The WHO’s second declaration of mpox as a PHEIC underscores the seriousness of the current global situation. The first declaration, made on July 23, 2022, remained in effect until May 11, 2023. The resurgence of the virus, particularly the rapid spread of the new clade 1b strain, has prompted renewed international concern.
In response to these developments, Malaysia has recorded nine cases of mpox since the first case was detected on July 26, 2023. All reported cases in the country have been linked to individuals with a history of high-risk activities. Fortunately, all the patients have recovered, and no deaths have been reported to date.
Despite the relatively low number of cases, the MOH remains on high alert, recognizing the importance of early detection and rapid response in preventing a larger outbreak. The Ministry’s proactive measures, combined with public cooperation, are key to ensuring that Malaysia remains prepared in the face of this global health challenge.
Expert Opinions and Future Outlook
Commenting on the situation, Professor Sharifa Ezat Wan Puteh, a health economics and public health specialist at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Faculty of Medicine, emphasized the importance of monitoring individuals who have engaged in sexual activities with partners from countries where mpox is present, including those where the disease is endemic. Her remarks highlight the ongoing need for vigilance, particularly in identifying and managing cases that may arise from international travel or high-risk activities.
As the global situation continues to evolve, the MOH is committed to staying informed and adapting its strategies as necessary. The Ministry’s ongoing efforts to enhance surveillance, increase public awareness, and ensure a robust response infrastructure reflect its dedication to protecting public health in Malaysia.
In conclusion, while Malaysia has thus far managed to contain the spread of mpox, the Ministry of Health’s continued vigilance and comprehensive response strategy will be essential in maintaining this success. By working together with international health authorities, other government agencies, and the public, Malaysia is well-positioned to manage the risks associated with this ongoing global health emergency.
