Current Situation of Mpox in Pakistan

Overview of Mpox in Pakistan: Mpox (Monkeypox) cases have been reported in Pakistan in 2024, primarily involving travelers returning from the Gulf region. The majority of cases have been identified at Peshawar Airport in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). As of now, there have been five confirmed cases in the country, with the most recent case reported in late August. The outbreak is primarily linked to international travel, and no local transmission has been confirmed so far​(

The Express Tribune, The Express Tribune

Current Cases and Diagnosis: Most of the cases have been detected during screenings at airports. For instance, a 47-year-old man recently tested positive after returning from the Gulf and was isolated immediately. The screenings at airports like Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar have been intensified, with over 20,000 people screened to control the spread of the virus​. The Express Tribune

Spread of the Virus: The Mpox virus spreads through close contact with an infected person or animal or with contaminated materials. This includes exposure to respiratory droplets, body fluids, and skin lesions of infected persons. The Clade 1b variant of the virus, identified in recent cases, is known to spread easily through close contact but is considered to be less severe than other variants​. The Express Tribune

Government Response: The government of Pakistan has taken several steps to control the spread of Mpox. A high-level meeting was called to address the rising cases, with health officials from various regions participating. The government has ramped up screening measures at airports, implemented isolation protocols for suspected cases, and formed Rapid Response Teams in district health offices. Additionally, isolation wards have been established across districts to manage potential outbreaks​.

The Express Tribune, ARY NEWS

How to Stay Safe from Mpox: To prevent the spread of Mpox, the public is advised to:

• Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water or using an alcohol-based sanitizer.
• Avoid close contact with infected individuals or those showing symptoms like rashes or fever.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks and gloves when caring for an infected person.
• Avoid contact with animals that could harbor the virus, particularly in regions where Mpox is prevalent.

Handling an Infected Patient: If someone is suspected or confirmed to have Mpox, they should be isolated to prevent spreading the virus to others. Healthcare professionals should use PPE, and all surfaces and materials that might have come into contact with the patient should be disinfected. The patient should receive supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications​. ARY NEWS

Questions & Answers:

1. What is Mpox? Mpox is a viral disease caused by the Mpox virus. It is similar to smallpox but usually less severe.

2. How is Mpox spread? The virus spreads through close contact with an infected person, respiratory droplets, or contaminated materials.

3. What should you do if you suspect Mpox? Seek medical attention immediately, isolate the patient, and avoid close contact.

4. Is there a vaccine for Mpox? There are vaccines available, such as JYNNEOS, which can help prevent Mpox. The government may consider procurement based on the outbreak's scale.