Deputy health minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni said anyone suspected of showing mpox symptoms would be taken for further screening and examination.

Lukanisman said the ministry had provided guidelines on how mpox could infect high-risk groups if symptoms are present.

“The ministry is also prioritising the health of healthcare workers and will issue a statement soon regarding vaccines.

“Everything remains under control and the health ministry is focusing its attention on high-risk groups,” he told reporters after participating in a walkabout programme in Kota Bharu.

Meanwhile, he said the ministry expects the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2023 (Act 852) to be enforced next month, once the related rules and orders are gazetted.

He said the ministry is currently awaiting feedback from the Attorney-General’s Chambers on the matter.

“We expect a response in October and hope to carry out enforcement immediately,” he added.