Rising Concerns as Mpox Virus Resurfaces
Three cases of the Mpox virus have been detected in Pakistan. These cases were found in patients who arrived from the United Arab Emirates.
The health department in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa confirmed on Friday that two of the patients have been confirmed positive for monkey pox, while a third case is awaiting confirmation from the National Health Institute in Islamabad.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the recent Mpox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern.. While Pakistan has previously dealt with monkey pox, cases, it remains unclear which variant has been detected in these patients. All three individuals are currently under quarantine as health authorities take steps to prevent further spread.
Urgent Call for Preventive Measures
Authorities are urging the public to stay vigilant and follow recommended health guidelines to prevent the spread of the Mpox virus. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, which can escalate to severe complications if not treated promptly.
The recent detection of these cases highlights the ongoing threat posed by infectious diseases and underscores the importance of robust health monitoring and swift response measures.
The government is intensifying surveillance efforts and collaborating with international health organizations to manage the situation effectively.
Quick Facts: Mpox Virus Cases in Pakistan
| Detail | Information |
| Number of Cases | 3 |
| Source of Infection | Arrival from United Arab Emirates |
| Location | Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan |
| Status of Patients | 2 confirmed, 1 pending confirmation |
| Current Action | All patients quarantined |
| Health Department Statement | WHO declares public health emergency |
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FAQs
What are the symptoms of Mpox?
Monkey pox, symptoms often include fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. People may also experience chills, exhaustion, and a rash that resembles pimples or blisters. This rash can appear on the face, inside the mouth, and on various parts of the body such as the hands, feet, chest, genitals, or anus.
Is this disease curable?
While there’s no specific cure for monkey pox,, early care is crucial to managing the disease. The focus is primarily on treating the rash and alleviating pain. Vaccination within 4 days of exposure can stop Mpox in its tracks.
Is Mpox the same as Monkeypox?
Yes, Mpox is the new name for what was previously known as monkeypox. The virus was first discovered in monkeys used for research in 1958, with the first human case reported in 1970 in what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
How is monkeypox tested?
To test for Mpox, a healthcare provider will take a sample by swabbing the lesions on your skin or mouth. This type of sample is most likely to yield accurate results, and multiple lesions may be swabbed for testing.
How is Mpox transmitted?
Monkey pox spreads through touching the sores or scabs of someone who has the infection. These sores can be on the skin or on sensitive areas like the genitals or anus.
How do you treat monkey pox?
To prevent spreading Mpox, stay isolated at home, away from family, pets, and others, until your symptoms have completely gone away.There isn’t a specific treatment for Mpox, but healthcare providers might use antiviral medications.
