Mpox under control in Pakistan: NHS

Islamabad: The Ministry of National Health Services (NHS) has confirmed two cases of monkeypox in the country since the global emergency at the beginning of this month, claiming that it is under control.

According to the media report, Ministry of NHS spokesperson Sajid Shah said in a statement that screening of suspected patients has been completed across the country, while those showing symptoms have been shifted to hospital isolation wards to prevent local transmission of the virus.

The spokesperson Sajid Shah stated that the federal government is strictly monitoring the situation. Health Secretary Nadeem Mehboob is monitoring the situation at the airports himself.

He further said that along with Islamabad International Airport, Health Secretary also visited Peshawar and Lahore airports.

During his visit to Allama Iqbal Airport, Nadeem Mehboob was briefed by the authorities on the screening arrangements for suspected monkeypox patients, while the Border Health Services staff also briefed him.

Health Secretary Nadeem Mahboob said that border health staff at airports are ensuring surveillance and effective screening systems.

He emphasized on strict implementation of the guidelines issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

According to the Health Secretary, the Ministry of National Health Services is monitoring the situation daily, Pakistan's disease surveillance system is effective and robust.