GEORGE TOWN (Aug 20): The government has no plans to implement a vaccination programme for monkeypox or mpox for Malaysians, said Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni.

He said so far, there are no discussions on the matter, and an in-depth study should be done first if there is a need to implement it.

"So far, we have not even talked about this vaccine. If there is [a need], we will fully study the requirements regarding mpox. If we [just] look at the guidelines and also the way of infection, it can be avoided if individuals take precautions, such as by practising personal hygiene and others.

"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.

Commenting further, Lukanisman said that so far, no new cases of mpox infection had been recorded in the country, but the ministry is always closely monitoring the development of mpox, and will issue official statements from time to time.

In addition, he said that for the time being, there are no obstacles for Malaysians to go abroad, but they must always be vigilant by taking the necessary measures to avoid any infection.

According to him, the government is also currently implementing strict controls at the country's entrance 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 pandemic (Covid-19). All precautionary measures have been taken by the relevant agencies, especially at the immigration checkpoints, airports and borders, and we will refer to them if there is a need," he said.

Previously, the Ministry of Health in a statement said that it is always prepared through strengthening surveillance and advocacy activities related to mpox, including increasing monitoring at all international entry points.

This follows a declaration by the World Health Organization that mpox is a public health emergency of international concern for the second time on Aug 14.

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