Wed Sep 18 03:26:37 UTC 2024: ## No Mpox Risk for Malaysians Visiting Thailand, Says Kelantan Health Department
**KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18** – Malaysians planning a trip to Thailand can breathe easy, as the country is not currently considered at risk for the mpox virus, according to the Kelantan Health Department (JKNK).
Datuk Dr Zaini Hussin, JKNK director, stated that Thailand is not classified as a high-risk country for mpox. While the department is closely monitoring individuals entering Kelantan from Thailand at border checkpoints, including the Rantau Panjang and Bukit Bunga ICQS, no mpox cases have been reported.
Dr Zaini clarified that high-risk countries are primarily located in Africa, specifically the Democratic Republic of Congo. Kelantan residents who have recently travelled to these high-risk areas are encouraged to inform JKNK and the Ministry of Health (MoH) upon their return to facilitate monitoring and prevent the spread of the virus.
The reassurance comes after the MoH confirmed Malaysia’s first mpox case yesterday, involving a Malaysian man who developed symptoms including fever, sore throat, and cough. The patient, who is currently in isolation and in stable condition, exhibited no travel history abroad within the 21 days preceding the onset of symptoms.
Despite the confirmed case, the public is urged to remain calm and contact authorities immediately if experiencing any mpox symptoms.
First Piper 