GEORGE TOWN, August 20 - Malaysia is taking strict control measures including screening at the country's border entrance to detect individuals at risk of contracting mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, said Deputy Health Minister, Lukanisman Awang Sauni.

This is because there have been several deaths reported in Thailand due to the virus.

"So far, the process we are doing is the same as it was during the pandemic..we will 'trigger anything' to the relevant agencies, especially at the entrances of the country if there is a need."

"We have guidelines...we have issued the guidelines..all precautionary measures will be taken by the related agencies, especially at the immigration checkpoints, airports and our borders," he told reporters after officiating the 34th Malaysia-Thailand Border Health Scientific Conference here.

Not only the movement of individuals or tourists, but food supply matters will also be the focus of the Malaysian Ministry of Health (KKM) in dealing with the virus.

Among the symptoms of a person infected with mpox are fever, fatigue, headache, body sore, joint pain, rashes and visible spots on the skin.

Individuals and children with weak body immunity are at risk of contracting the virus.