ISLAMABAD: The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has issued an urgent advisory regarding an unprecedented global outbreak of Monkeypox, affecting multiple countries.
The advisory provides a comprehensive overview of the current global and national Monkeypox situation, offering guidance to relevant stakeholders on prevention, detection, and response strategies. Health authorities, healthcare providers, and public health organizations are urged to intensify surveillance, improve diagnostic capabilities, and implement strong preventive measures to curb the spread of Mpox. The public is advised to stay informed, maintain good hygiene, and seek medical attention if symptoms arise.
A new clade of Mpox has been identified in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and surrounding regions, including areas previously unaffected by the virus. This outbreak has now reached all World Health Organization (WHO) regions, with 122 countries reporting a total of 99,518 confirmed cases and 208 deaths.
In Pakistan, the outbreak has resulted in 11 confirmed cases and one death since the first case was detected in April 2023. The WHO has declared Monkeypox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Notably, Mpox was also designated a PHEIC in 2022.
What is Monkeypox?
Mpox is a viral disease caused by the Mpox virus. While the natural reservoir of the virus remains unidentified, it is suspected that African rodents and non-human primates, such as monkeys, may harbor the virus and transmit it to humans.
The disease typically presents with a rash that appears 1 to 3 days after the onset of fever, starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body. The rash progresses through several stages: macules, papules, vesicles, pustules, and scabs. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. The incubation period generally ranges from 7 to 14 days but can vary between 5 and 21 days. The illness usually lasts between 2 and 4 weeks.
