By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Nov 27: Malaysia’s Ministry of Health (MOH) has detected a new case of monkeypox (Mpox) caused by the clade II variant on Nov 25, involving a 34-year-old local man.
In a statement today, MOH confirmed that this brings the total number of Mpox cases in Malaysia to two for the year, with a cumulative total of 11 cases since July 26, 2023.
This new case involves a local man with a recent travel history abroad within the past 21 days and participation in high-risk activities.
He began showing symptoms, including rashes on his hands, body, and legs, on Nov 15, and sought medical treatment on Nov 23.
According to MOH, the man is in stable condition, currently undergoing isolation, and receiving symptomatic treatment.
MOH emphasised that all close contacts are being identified and monitored for signs and symptoms of Mpox for 21 days from the date of last exposure.
Mpox is an infection caused by the Mpox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus.
The infection can spread through close contact with the rash or blisters on the skin of an infected individual or through exposure to respiratory fluids during intimate contact.
Symptoms of Mpox include fever and a maculopapular rash or blister rash on the face, palms, soles, genitals, conjunctiva, and cornea.
The incubation period—the time from exposure to the infection until symptoms appear—ranges from five to 21 days.
An individual with Mpox can spread the virus to others one day before symptoms emerge and until all blisters have completely dried.
Typically, Mpox resolves on its own without the need for specific treatment.
MOH continues to monitor the Mpox situation both locally and internationally, with further updates to be provided as necessary. — DayakDaily
