Countries across Southeast Asia are intensifying their responses to the mpox outbreak, previously known as monkeypox, following recent warnings from health officials. A combination of surveillance, health screenings, and public health communications are being ramped up to manage the situation effectively.
Malaysia has heightened its levels of alertness as the Health Ministry steps up surveillance at all international entry points. This includes monitoring travelers from countries where mpox cases have been reported, mandatorily requiring them to keep track of their health status for 21 days upon arrival.
The ministry has already recorded nine cases of mpox since the first was detected on July 26, 2023. Fortunately, all individuals affected have recovered, with authorities emphasizing the importance of reporting any symptoms like rashes or blisters to prevent spread.
Healthcare personnel are guided to notify any suspected or confirmed cases immediately to district health offices, facilitating effective prevention and control measures. The Malaysian government also reassured citizens of the availability of laboratories capable of conducting diagnostics, with ten facilities, including two private ones, ready to serve.
Further preventive strategies involve raising awareness among high-risk groups and at locations prone to skin-to-skin contact, like spas and saunas. The ministry urged these establishments to maintain high hygiene standards and to seek medical attention if symptoms arise among staff or customers.
Meanwhile, Indonesia's Health Ministry has also implemented new surveillance measures, particularly targeting foreign travelers. Upon arrival, visitors must fill out questionnaires covering their recent travel and health history, assisting healthcare authorities to identify potential risks early.
Yudhi Pramono, the acting director general of disease prevention at the Ministry of Health, emphasized the importance of vigilance. He stated, "By mapping the [arrival passengers] countries of origin, we will have sufficient data to advise travelers accordingly."
This proactive approach reflects acknowledgment of recent trends, as Indonesia has confirmed only 14 cases of mpox to date, down significantly from 73 cases during the same period last year. Health authorities aim to sustain this downward trend through rigorous monitoring and preventive actions.
Over the horizon, Thailand has also issued warnings related to the mpox outbreak. Local authorities are emphasizing similar health protocols as adopted by their neighbors to mitigate risks as the virus persists.
Singapore is also stepping up its defenses, recalling lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic. Acting quickly on the matter, the country's Health Minister Ong Ye Kung expressed concern, stating, "I would say, in general, this is a very worrying situation, especially for the African continent, and I think we should work on the basis for mpox arriving in Asia."
While Singapore's current hospital capacities should manage mpox effectively, experts have noted the vulnerability of children to the new strain. Leong Hoe Nam, from Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, cautioned about the potential for rapid transmission, akin to outbreaks of hand, foot, and mouth disease seen in childcare settings.
Despite the challenges, regional authorities are optimistic about managing the outbreak. The collective response from nations involved is bolstered by lessons learned from previous public health emergencies.
Public health experts have recognized the significance of vaccination as part of the containment strategy. Danish biotech firm Bavarian Nordic aims to produce 10 million doses of the Jynneos vaccine by the end of 2025, with potential availability of two million doses this year.
Nonetheless, the stigma surrounding mpox can impede efforts to combat its spread. Experts, including Paul Tambyah, president of the International Society for Infectious Diseases, have noted this obstacle and called for community engagement to effectively counter misinformation and fear.
Authorities stress the necessity of reliable information, encouraging the public to seek guidance from recognized health agencies only. Dale Fisher from the National University of Singapore highlighted, "Misinformation is a great modern-day enemy," urging officials to boost community outreach and combat false narratives.
Overall, the response to the mpox outbreak showcases collaborative efforts across Southeast Asia. Governments are mobilizing resources, ramping up testing, and enhancing public awareness campaigns to protect their populations and mitigate public health risks.
