MPOX (monkeypox) is caused by a virus from the genus Orthopox-virus, the same family that includes smallpox, cowpox, and variola viruses. The latest declaration by the World Health Organisation that mpox is a public health emergency of international concern was made on Aug 14 following a resurgence of cases worldwide. In Malaysia, there have been nine cases of mpox so far, all reported in 2023.
With the current surge of news about mpox circulating on social media, in the news, and among the public, there is an urgent need to dispel common myths surrounding the virus for effective prevention and public health management.