KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry (MOH) today confirmed that a new case of mpox (monkeypox) Clade II was reported in the country on Monday.
In a statement, MOH said the latest case is the second in the country this year and the 11th case since the outbreak was discovered on 23 July last year.
"The latest case involves a 34-year-old Malaysian man with a history of overseas travel within the last 21 days and participation in high-risk activities."
He began experiencing symptoms, including rashes on his hands, body, and feet, on Nov 15 before seeking medical treatment on Saturday (Nov 23).
"The individual is now in stable condition, undergoing isolation and symptomatic treatment," read the statement.
It said it was in the process of conducting contact tracing for those who may have been in close contact with the patient.
"Close contacts of the patient are currently being identified and monitored for symptoms of mpox over a 21-day observation period," it said.
Mpox, which is a viral infection caused by the mpox virus and classified under the Orthopoxvirus genus, can spread through close human-to-human contact, including direct contact with rashes or blisters on an infected person's skin.
The ministry also warned the public to be wary of their surroundings and practice good hygiene, including frequent hand washing and the use of sanitisers at all times, as mpox transmission can also occur through respiratory droplets, particularly during intimate interactions.
"Symptoms of mpox include fever accompanied by a 'maculopapular rash' or blister-like lesions on the face, palms, soles, genitals, and sometimes the eyes.
The incubation period ranges from five to 21 days.
Infected individuals are contagious from a day before symptoms appear until all lesions have completely dried and healed.
"While most cases resolve on their own without specific treatment, vigilance remains key to containing the spread," it said.
MOH also advised individuals with symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, rashes, or blisters to seek immediate medical attention and to avoid direct contact, including sexual activity, with individuals suspected or confirmed to have mpox.
"Travellers to countries reporting mpox cases should maintain healthy practices and avoid high-risk activities.
"All travellers arriving in Malaysia from mpox-affected countries are advised to monitor their health for 21 days and report any symptoms promptly," it said.