PM directs for improved Monkeypox screening

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday directed to enhance the effectiveness of Monkeypox screening systems at the country's airports, seaports, and borders.

He was chairing an important meeting regarding Monkeypox, in Islamabad today.

Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister instructed the National Command and Operation Center to keep an eye on the Monkeypox situation in the country.

The Prime Minister also directed the Border Health Services to ensure thorough monitoring and stringent surveillance of the situation.

He said the availability of all necessary testing equipment and kits for the disease should be ensured.

The Prime Minister directed to improve coordination with provincial governments, and the Governments of Gilgit-Baltistan, and the Azad Jammu and Kashmir to prevent the spread of the disease.

Shehbaz Sharif ordered to start an effective and comprehensive awareness campaign in this regard.

The Prime Minister said he will personally take weekly briefing on Monkeypox.

The forum was briefed that recently, a person in Mardan tested positive for the virus. The infected individual was residing abroad for employment and recently returned to Pakistan.