State health executive councillor Dr Hayati Othman said the move was to avoid any risk of the virus spreading to the state, which borders Thailand.

He said the state health department is also constantly monitoring and obtaining early information on the development of the disease.

“Thus far, only the vaccine is able to prevent infection and we encourage those who want to go to neighbouring countries to take the vaccine first as a preventive measure.

“We have yet to detect people returning from Thailand with symptoms of the virus infection,” he told reporters after a PAS event here.

The media previously reported that the Thai government had issued a national monkeypox warning after an emergency meeting took place between the country’s health agency and health minister on July 28.

Hayati said all parties should be vigilant as the disease could spread through saliva, phlegm and mucus.

“If any Malaysian wants to go to Thailand to eat, there is no problem because it does not spread through food.

“Just watch out for the people around you. If you see someone with skin rashes, do not approach the person.”