First suspected case of Mpox reported in Pakistan

Islamabad: The National Institute of Health (NIH) has revealed the first suspected case of monkeypox (Mpox) in Pakistan.
The case involves a citizen from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa who returned from the Gulf region and exhibited symptoms of Mpox. Tests were conducted, and samples have been sent for confirmation.

The Ministry of National Health disclosed the suspected case in a statement, stating that the patient showed mild symptoms of Mpox.
Authorities have begun tracing individuals who came into contact with the patient to obtain their samples as well.

The spokesperson for the Ministry of National Health also mentioned that all provinces have been instructed to appoint focal persons for monkeypox. Border Health Services have been directed to enhance surveillance at all entry points.

It's noteworthy that the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the spread of a new strain of Mpox in Congo and other parts of Africa as a global health emergency. Both children and adults in some African countries have been confirmed to have contracted Mpox.

So far, Mpox cases have been reported in 13 countries, with 517 deaths recorded. This year, over 17,000 suspected cases have been reported, mostly in African nations.