No Zika cases in Johor, but state on high alert after Singapore infections
Following the recent cases reported across the Causeway, health authorities are on high alert and have heightened mosquito control and health surveillance. State Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said entry protocols remain unchanged at all land, sea and air checkpoints to Johor.
"Singaporeans and other foreigners can continue to make their way into Johor.
"Screening protocol will continue at all entry checkpoints…anyone showing symptoms will be immediately referred for further testing at designated medical facilities," he told the New Straits Times today.
"There are no reported Zika cases in Johor as of now, and the Health Ministry has not issued any new directives. However, we remain vigilant," Ling added.
There are two confirmed Zika cases in Singapore's housing estate in Woodlands, some 5km away from the Johor's border land entry point via the Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) complex at the Bangunan Sultan Ismail, here.
While Malaysia has not seen a Zika outbreak since 2016, Ling stressed the need for continuous preventive efforts, especially in Johor given its high volume of cross-border traffic.
Malaysia's last significant Zika concern occurred in 2016, when the first local transmission was confirmed in Sabah, shortly after Singapore reported a major outbreak in the Aljunied area.
Since then, Malaysia has reported sporadic cases, primarily imported or isolated incidents, but no major outbreak or cluster has been officially recorded.
As of June 2025, there has been no confirmed Zika outbreak in Malaysia resembling the 2016 episode in terms of scale or transmission pattern.
Meanwhile, Singapore National Environment Agency (NEA) in a statement issued on June 19 (Thursday) said NEA and the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) confirmed two locally transmitted Zika cases at Woodlands Street 11 and Street 32.
The viral traces were found in both mosquito and wastewater samples in the area which signalled a likely transmission.
Singapore, has deployed over 70,000 mosquito traps across the island, has recorded seven confirmed Zika cases this year.
The virus is spread mainly by Aedes mosquitoes, which is the same vector responsible for dengue. It can cause serious complications in pregnant women, including birth defects.
Zika symptoms include fever, rash, red eyes, and joint pain, although many infected individuals remain asymptomatic. There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment.
Ling urged Johoreans to stay alert and practise anti-mosquito measures such as removing stagnant water and using repellents.
He also advised pregnant women and those planning to travel to affected areas to consult medical professionals if they develop symptoms.
The public can follow updates through official channels and are advised to seek immediate medical attention if unwell.
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