No MERS-CoV cases in Malaysia so far - Dr Hilmi

No Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) cases have been detected in Malaysia so far, said Deputy Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Hilmi Yahaya.

However, he said the country would still take appropriate measures to ensure that the virus would not spread in the country.

"The ministry is also working with airport operators to conduct health screening using thermal cameras to monitor the temperature of each passenger entering and leaving the country," he said.

He was speaking at a press conference after launching 'Traxx FM Go Blue' quit smoking campaign, jointly by the Malaysian Health Promotion Board (MySihat), Malaysia (RTM) and Traxx FM, an English-language radio station, in Angkasapuri here, Wednesday.

Also present was Traxx FM manager, Philomena Pragasam.

Dr Hilmi advised the public to take preventive measures to avoid the virus.

He also advised and pilgrims to take care of their health and practice good personal hygiene.

International media reported that 108 people have been infected with MERS- in South Korea so far, with nine deaths and more than 2,800 people having been quarantined.

On the campaign, Dr Hilmi said radio stations like Traxx FM could play an important role in fostering among Malaysians to create smoke-free environment in the workplace and at home.

"Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2011 reveals that four out of 10 Malaysian adults or 7.6 million people are exposed to secondhand tobacco smoke at home while four out of 10 adults or 2.3 million people are exposed to the smoke at the workplace," he said.

Meanwhile, Philomena said radio shows and public seminar activities co- with MySihat were to promote public and corporate quit smoking awareness in the country.

The campaign will be held throughout the year with more road shows and seminar activities in schools, universities and corporate companies, she said.