Are Malaysians safe to travel to Thailand amid mpox concerns?

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Malaysians Can Travel to Thailand Without mpox Concerns, According to Kelantan Health Department

Malaysians visiting Thailand can travel without undue concern regarding mpox, as Thailand is not currently considered a high-risk country for the virus. The Kelantan Health Department (JKNK) has confirmed that no mpox cases have been reported within the state, and monitoring efforts are in place at border crossings with Thailand. While Thailand is not classified as a high-risk area, the Ministry of Health (MoH) recently confirmed a case of the mpox clade II variant within Malaysia, involving a local patient with no recent travel history.
Thailand Not Identified as a High-Risk Country for Mpox

The Kelantan Health Department director has stated that Thailand is not currently considered at risk for the mpox virus and is not classified as a high-risk country. This assessment suggests that travel to Thailand does not pose an elevated risk for mpox infection based on the country's current status. High-risk countries for mpox are primarily identified as African nations, with the Democratic Republic of Congo being cited as an example.
Border Monitoring Measures are in Place

Despite Thailand not being a high-risk country, the Kelantan Health Department is actively monitoring individuals entering the state from Thailand. This monitoring is being conducted in collaboration with the Immigration Department at border checkpoints, specifically at the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) complexes located in Rantau Panjang and Bukit Bunga. To date, no mpox cases have been reported within Kelantan.
Local Mpox Case Reported in Malaysia

Separately, the Ministry of Health (MoH) confirmed a positive case of the mpox clade II variant in Malaysia. The affected individual is a Malaysian man who developed symptoms including fever, sore throat, and cough, followed by a rash. Notably, this patient had no travel history abroad within 21 days prior to the onset of symptoms, indicating the potential for local transmission. The patient is currently in isolation and reported to be in a stable condition.
Guidance for Travellers and Symptomatic Individuals

Residents of Kelantan who have recently travelled to countries identified as high-risk for mpox are advised to inform the Kelantan Health Department and the Ministry of Health upon their return. This measure facilitates monitoring and helps prevent the potential spread of the virus. Furthermore, any individual experiencing symptoms consistent with mpox is urged to notify health authorities immediately for prompt assessment and management.

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Are Malaysians safe to travel to Thailand amid mpox concerns?

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