KUALA LUMPUR – The MVA-BN vaccine against mpox and the tecovirimat (TPOXX) antiviral will be available here, but only for those in high-risk groups, said Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad.
There will be no general vaccination for the public, adding that high-risk means healthcare workers and those who have had close contact with an mpox case, he added.
The vaccine and antiviral will be made available in Malaysia through the Covid-19 Asean Response Fund, although he did not state.
“TPOXX is used in mpox treatment, especially for those with severe cases and weak immune systems.
“The MVA-BN vaccine is only administered based on examination and evaluation by medical experts. There will be no general vaccination,” Dzulkefly said.
The minister previously announced tighter measures taken to screen travellers entering the country at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
This includes the use of thermal scanners and closer monitoring of passengers with symptoms and those who flew in on flights from high-risk countries. They will be directed to a separate area for further screening.
Symptoms to look out for include swollen glands, blistered skin and a high body temperature.
Malaysia reported nine cases of mpox last year.
A more transmissible strain, Clade 1b, was declared a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organisation on August 14 following an upsurge in cases in several parts of Africa.
In Malaysia, 33 suspected mpox cases were under monitoring at health facilities last week, but 32 were confirmed negative as of August 28, while one was awaiting laboratory results. – September 2, 2024