PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Department has confirmed Pakistan’s third case of mpox, a virus related to monkeypox, in a 51-year-old man who recently returned from abroad.
The patient, a resident of Peshawar, was identified during routine airport screening and was promptly transferred to the Police Services Hospital after showing symptoms. Dr. Irshad, the director of public health in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, reported that the patient’s condition is stable, and he is currently receiving treatment.
This case represents the third confirmed instance of mpox in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa this year, raising concerns about the virus’s spread in the region. The provincial Health Department is closely monitoring the situation.
A spokesperson from the Ministry of Health noted that the patient, who recently traveled from the Gulf countries, is undergoing contact tracing to identify and screen individuals who may have been exposed.
Following recent emergency measures, the number of mpox cases in Pakistan has increased to three, with Border Health Services staff actively working at airports. Dr. Mukhtar Bharath, the national health coordinator, emphasized that Pakistan has implemented a robust strategy to combat mpox, supported by an effective disease surveillance system. Both federal and provincial governments are working together to prevent further cases.
In Karachi, a passenger arriving from Jeddah on a private airline has been suspected of carrying mpox. The individual, who displayed symptoms consistent with the virus, was transferred to the Sindh Government Hospital in Nipa for further examination.
Health authorities in Karachi are taking all necessary precautions to prevent a potential outbreak. The confirmation of mpox cases in various parts of Pakistan underscores the need for continued vigilance and public health measures to control the virus’s spread. Authorities urge the public to stay informed and follow health guidelines to protect themselves and others.
