Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Health (MOH) has confirmed a new mpox cluster affecting four family members, with the index case identified as a non-citizen man with a recent travel history to West Africa.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MOH reported that the patient first developed symptoms on October 20 and tested positive for mpox (Clade II) on November 12. Three of his family members showed symptoms on October 30 and were confirmed positive for Clade II mpox on November 13.
All cases are reportedly in stable condition and undergoing home isolation. The MOH has identified and screened all close contacts, instructing them to undergo quarantine. Investigations indicate that the transmission is limited to family members, and the cluster situation is under control.
The ministry further reported that as of epidemiological week 46 (ME 46/2025), Malaysia has recorded a total of 12 mpox cases, bringing the cumulative total to 23 since the first case was detected in July 2023. Out of these, 22 cases were Clade II mpox infections, while one case was Clade Ib.
The MOH noted that all cases have been effectively contained through early detection, patient isolation, and close contact monitoring, with no further community infection reported. Despite mpox no longer being classified as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) as of September 5, the ministry will continue to monitor the situation locally and abroad, maintaining preventive and control measures.
Mpox (previously known as monkeypox) is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, part of the Orthopoxvirus genus. Symptoms of mpox include fever with rashes or blisters on various parts of the body, and transmission mainly occurs through close contact with infected individuals. The disease can spread via skin contact with rashes or blisters, sexual contact, or through contaminated surfaces and objects. It can be more severe in children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
The MOH advises the public to continue practising preventive measures, such as avoiding direct contact with anyone showing symptoms or suspected of having mpox, and to seek immediate medical attention if experiencing symptoms like fever, blistering rashes, or swollen lymph nodes.