KUALA LUMPUR: Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah has reminded the public to be vigilant against communicable diseases, including monkeypox.

       In expressing her concern, she also called on the people to be more aware of the current situation and at the same time to always practise good personal hygiene.

       "Although Covid-19 has entered the endemic phase, other diseases are around, so it is our duty to take care of ourselves,” she said in a brief speech after officiating the IIUM Sejahtera Clinic here on Monday (May 30).

       Monkeypox is caused by an infection by the orthopoxvirus which can be transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected animal, or direct contact with the blood or body fluids of that creature.

       The monkeypox virus has been reported in several countries, including Canada, Spain, Portugal, Sweden, France, Italy, the United States, Switzerland and Austria.

       Earlier, Tunku Azizah joined some 3,000 students and staff as they gathered for the International Islamic University Malaysia Syawal Celebration (Raya@IIUM) at the Activity Centre Main Hall.

       Her Majesty, who is IIUM’s Constitutional head, also visited the clinic at the Kulliyyah of Education Building which was completely renovated in March.

       The clinic, which now has a total of six consultation and treatment rooms, is equipped with a clinical laboratory, pharmacy, radiology and dental treatment facilities.

       Also present at the event were IIUM president Tan Sri Dr Mohd Daud Bakar and rector Prof Emeritus Tan Sri Dzulkifli Abdul Razak. – Bernama