Mpox vaccines in Malaysia soon, says health minister

HEALTH Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad today said mpox vaccines will soon be distributed through the Covid-19 Asean Response Fund.

In two brief postings on X, he said the ministry will take delivery of tecovirimat antiviral (TPOXX) and MVA-BN vaccine for mpox.

“TPOXX is used in the treatment of mpox, especially those who have an acute infection and weak immunity system,” he said.

The World Health Organisation has declared that an outbreak of mpox, a viral infection that spreads through close contact, represents a global health emergency for the second time in two years.

Dr Dzulkelfy had earlier announced that MOH was working with Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd to tighten screenings for travellers entering through Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 to mitigate the risk of mpox transmission.

The government had also activated a special operations room from August 16 at the National Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre to monitor and prevent any possible spread of mpox in coordination with other Asean countries. – September 2, 2024