Pakistan Records First Monkeypox Case in 2024
Pakistan has confirmed its first case of monkeypox (Mpox) for the year 2024, sparking renewed concerns over the virus. The patient, a citizen from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), was diagnosed with monkeypox shortly after returning from Saudi Arabia. Federal Health Ministry officials disclosed that the infected individual hails from Dir and is currently residing in Mardan. The virus was detected following his arrival back home on August 3.
This detection comes just a day after the Federal Health Ministry issued an alert to curb the potential spread of diseases through international travelers. In response, authorities have been closely monitoring and testing individuals who were in contact with the patient. The Border Health Services have also ramped up screening procedures at all entry points to further limit the spread of the virus.
Advisory and Guidelines Issued to Provinces
In light of the new case, an emergency session was convened at the Health Ministry, led by the Director General of Health. During the meeting, officials issued fresh guidelines and advisories aimed at preventing the spread of monkeypox. Provincial health departments have been instructed to appoint designated focal persons responsible for tracking and reporting any developments regarding monkeypox.
WHO Declares Monkeypox a Global Emergency
It is crucial to note that the World Health Organization (WHO) has labeled the recent surge in monkeypox cases as a global emergency. In the past year, Pakistan has recorded nine cases, mainly among travelers coming from the Middle East. Sadly, one of these patients, who was also living with HIV, succumbed to the infection in Islamabad.
NIH Advisory on the Monkeypox Outbreak
On Thursday, the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Pakistan issued a comprehensive advisory addressing the multi-country outbreak of monkeypox, particularly in non-endemic regions. According to the advisory, a staggering 99,518 cases of monkeypox have been reported worldwide, with 208 resulting in fatalities. Within Pakistan, 11 cases have been reported since April 2023, with one death.
The advisory further explains the symptoms and recommended precautions. Those affected by monkeypox typically experience rashes, fevers, headaches, and body aches, primarily concentrated on the face and body. The infection period generally lasts between two to four weeks, with 99% of patients recovering. However, the advisory warns that a more severe strain, prevalent in African countries, has been responsible for higher mortality rates.
Public Safety Measures and Precautions
To minimize the risk of further infections, the NIH has emphasized the importance of maintaining strict hygiene and isolation protocols. Medical staff have been urged to wear masks and adhere to regular handwashing routines. The public is also advised to follow these preventive measures, especially in crowded or high-risk areas. Infected individuals should remain in isolation until they fully recover to prevent the virus from spreading.
With the renewed vigilance and guidelines in place, health officials hope to mitigate the risk of a larger outbreak, ensuring that Pakistan remains prepared to address any potential public health threats.