Tighter security to mitigate Mpox transmission

29 August 2024

SEPANG: The Ministry of Health (MOH), in collaboration with Malaysia Airport Holdings Bhd, has strengthened screening procedures for travelers arriving at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 to mitigate the risk of mpox transmission.

Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Dzulkefly Ahmad announced that all travelers on international flights will undergo screening with thermal scanners.

"In addition, if a flight originates from a high-risk country or if symptomatic passengers are identified, all passengers and crew will be directed to the MOH health screening center near gate C22 for further evaluation," he stated during a media briefing after an on-site inspection at KLIA Terminal 1 yesterday.

Accompanying him were Health Director-General Datuk Dr. Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan, Public Health Deputy Director-General Datuk Dr. Norhayati Rusli, and KLIA Public Health Specialist Dr. Mohd Nasir Habib.

Dzulkefly reported that since August 16, a total of 3.26 million travelers have been screened at international entry points nationwide.

"To date, no positive cases have been detected," he added, noting that 34 suspected mpox cases have been reported at healthcare facilities; of these, 33 tested negative, and one result is still pending.

He mentioned that 30 MOH staff members are stationed at KLIA Terminal 1 at all times, with the ministry prepared to increase personnel if necessary. Similar screening processes are also being conducted at other international entry points via land, sea, and air.

Mpox was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern for the second time on August 14. The spread of the clade IIb virus began in 2022 and continues to affect several countries in Africa.