BY KHIRTINI K KUMARAN

Understanding how the virus spreads , its symptoms and effective prevention methods is crucial to managing its threat .

To shed light on the situation , Malaysia AIDS Council ( MAC ) President Dr Raja Iskandar Shah Raja Azwa shared crucial insights into the virus .

WHAT IS MPOX ?

“ The monkeypox virus causes Mpox , a member of the same family as the smallpox virus ,” explained Dr Raja .

He pointed out that while the virus was initially identified in monkeys , it predominantly spreads through close contact with infected humans or animals .

“ People with Mpox typically develop a rash , alongside symptoms such as fever , headache , muscle aches , and swollen lymph nodes ,” said Dr Raja .

“ Transmission is mainly through close physical contact , including sexual interactions , or face-to-face interactions , such as kissing . The virus can also be spread through respiratory droplets , bodily fluids , and contaminated materials .”

Dr Raja highlighted that while Mpox has historically been endemic to Central and West Africa , it has now spread to countries outside these regions .

“ The emergence of a new clade , 1b , is concerning as it seems more transmissible and can present with more severe symptoms .”

Dr Raja Iskandar Shah Raja Azwa

“ People with Mpox typically develop a rash , alongside symptoms such as fever , headache , muscle aches , and swollen lymph nodes .”

– Dr Raja

This new variant underscores the importance of raising awareness about the various transmission pathways .

“ It ’ s essential to understand that Mpox can be transmitted from animals to humans , especially during activities like hunting or cooking , and can also be passed from mother to child during pregnancy ,” said Dr Raja .

SYMPTOMS AND MONITORING EXPOSURE

The early symptoms of Mpox closely mirror those of many viral infections , such as fever , muscle aches , and a sore throat . However , the hallmark sign of Mpox is its characteristic rash .

“ The rash usually starts on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body , including the hands and feet . It goes through several stages , from flat spots to raised bumps , blisters , and finally pus-filled lesions .”

He advised individuals to be vigilant if they suspect exposure , noting that early symptoms can be managed with self-care and avoiding physical contact with others .

“ If you suspect you have Mpox , it ’ s important to isolate yourself , wear a face mask , and inform those you ’ ve been in close contact with .”

Additionally , he advised against scratching or popping lesions , as this could worsen the rash and increase the risk of spreading the virus . He also warned against shaving over sores , as this could lead to further complications .

MEASURES TO MINIMISE TRANSMISSION

Mpox spreads primarily through close contact with infected individuals or materials , but precautions can significantly reduce the risk of transmission .

“ Isolating those with symptoms is critical ,” Dr Raja emphasised , adding that people should cover their lesions and wear a mask when around others to help curb the virus ’ s spread .

He pointed out that health workers must adhere to stringent infection prevention measures when caring for Mpox patients , including wearing personal protective equipment ( PPE ).

“ Health professionals should take care when handling sharp objects , swabbing lesions , and managing patients .”

Dr Raja also mentioned sexual behaviour as a factor in Mpox transmission .

“ Taking a break from sexual activity with new partners during times of high

transmission can lower the risk .”

He advised those who have been in contact with an Mpox patient to watch for symptoms over three weeks and avoid intimate contact during this time .

MANAGING OUTBREAKS

Isolation remains a key strategy in controlling the spread of Mpox .

“ By adhering to isolation practices , the spread of Mpox can be greatly minimised , protecting public health .”

He highlighted the importance of early detection and treatment , stressing that infected individuals should seek medical attention as soon as possible to prevent further transmission .

According to guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health ( MoH ) Malaysia , suspected Mpox cases should remain in quarantine while awaiting laboratory results , with hospital admission considered for severe cases .

“ Hospital isolation is necessary when patients need close monitoring , have multiple comorbidities , or are at risk of transmitting the virus to others ,” he explained .

WHO IS MOST VULNERABLE ?

Dr Raja acknowledged that specific populations are more vulnerable to severe Mpox outcomes , including young children , older adults , and individuals with weakened immune systems .

“ People with chronic health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease are also more likely to experience complications from Mpox .”

Those with compromised immune systems may face a longer recovery time and more severe symptoms .

Although there are no treatments approved explicitly for Mpox , some antivirals initially developed for smallpox have shown promise .

“ Tecovirimat and Cidofovir are two antivirals that have been used with some success . Malaysia is expected to receive Tecovirimat and the MVA-BN vaccine for Mpox soon through the ASEAN Covid-19 Response Fund .”

As for immunity following infection , much remains uncertain . “ There have been reports of reinfection , meaning it is possible to get Mpox again even after recovering from it . Therefore , ongoing precautions are necessary ,” he warned .

While Mpox may not yet be as widespread in Malaysia as in other regions , Dr Raja ’ s insights underline the importance of awareness , prevention , and prompt medical care . – The HEALTH