THE Health Ministry needs to issue clear guidelines on how to stave off an outbreak of the monkeypox virus, which could spread to Malaysia as it has around the world, Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii said today.

The Bandar Kuching MP said guidelines are especially important for who travelling to countries where the virus has surfaced.

“(This is) a precautionary measure to prevent the disease from spreading to this country,” he said in a statement.

Yii is the DAP spokesman on health as well as the chair of the Special Select Committee on Health, Science and Innovation.

As of Saturday, the World Health Organization has recorded the virus’ presence in 12 countries.

Ninety-two confirmed and 28 suspected cases of monkey pox have been reported in Australia, Canada, United States, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

“While the majority of infected patients had recovered without complications, we should still take it seriously. 

“That is why proper guidelines and recommendations must be issued by MOH. including advising Malaysians who are planning to visit countries affected by the monkeypox outbreak to get vaccinated beforehand to protect themselves against the virus.

“At the same time, the government should also look at ways to intensify control at the country’s borders, including monitoring the entry of individuals from countries affected by the outbreak. 

“The public should also be educated and given guidelines on monitoring monkeypox symptoms, including, if needed, a quarantine period to prevent local transmission.  Those who are experiencing symptoms after returning from the countries involved should be advised to immediately seek medical examination.

“So far, the virus has not been reported in Malaysia so we have to be extra vigilant.”

The virus originated in monkeys and spread to humans through contact with body fluids such as saliva, nasal mucus and phlegm. It can cause symptoms including fever, aches, and a distinctive bumpy rash, Yii said.

WHO has recommended the existing smallpox or chickenpox vaccines against the virus. the vaccines are said to be 85% effective against monkeypox. – May 23, 2022.