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Third Case of Mpox Confirmed in Pakistan; Health Authorities Heighten Vigilance
Pakistan confirms its third case of the mpox virus at Peshawar airport, while another suspected case emerges in Karachi. Health authorities are stepping up efforts to control the spread.
ND
by News Desk
2024-08-31
Third Case of Mpox Confirmed in Pakistan; Health Authorities Heighten Vigilance

Pakistan has confirmed its third case of the mpox virus, formerly known as monkeypox, at Peshawar's Bacha Khan International Airport, while a suspected case has been reported at Karachi's Jinnah International Airport, according to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Public Health Director Dr. Irshad Ali Roghani. This marks another critical moment in the country's battle against the virus as health authorities intensify their efforts to prevent its spread.

 

The confirmed patient, a 51-year-old man from Orakzai, was identified during routine health checks at Peshawar airport after arriving on a flight from Jeddah. The man is currently in stable condition and receiving treatment at the Police and Services Hospital. Another passenger on the same flight, a 47-year-old from Peshawar, is under observation, with test results pending.

 

In Karachi, a 32-year-old traveler, also arriving from Jeddah, exhibited symptoms consistent with mpox, including a maculopapular rash. The individual has been admitted to Nipa Infectious Diseases Hospital as samples are tested for confirmation.

 

This latest case follows the World Health Organization's (WHO) declaration of the mpox outbreak as a public health emergency of international concern, driven by the emergence of the Clade 1b variant, known for its ease of transmission through close contact. Despite the alarming spread, the WHO has reassured that mpox is not another COVID-19 situation, given the existing knowledge about the virus and established control measures.

 

Pakistan's health ministry has emphasized that the situation remains under control, with rigorous screening and isolation protocols in place to contain the virus. The ministry has also assured that, so far, no cases of local transmission have been detected in the country.

 

Globally, the mpox virus has caused significant concern, particularly in Africa, where the outbreak has led to over 27,000 cases and more than 1,100 deaths, primarily in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The virus has also been identified in Sweden and Thailand, marking its spread beyond Africa. Despite this, the WHO has not recommended any travel restrictions.

 

Mpox typically presents with flu-like symptoms and skin lesions and, while usually mild, can pose severe risks to children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. The KP health department has responded by setting up an integrated surveillance and response system to monitor and manage the situation effectively.

 

As the situation develops, health officials urge the public to remain vigilant, adhere to preventive measures, and stay informed about the latest health advisories.
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