Pakistan has detected three cases of Mpox virus, the health department in northern Khyber pakhtunkhwa province said on friday, thw Mpox , previously known as monkeypox, has been reported in central and west Africa.
What is mpox and its symptoms?
Mpox is a viral illness caused by the Monkeypox virus, a species of the genus Orthopoxvirus. The virus is identifed by scientists in 1958. Recently, most human cases were seen in people in central and west africa who had close contact with infected animals,
Mpox blongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox but causes milder symptoms
People infected with mpox often get a rash that may be located on hands, chest, face, or mouth or near genital areas.
Immediate Health Response
Pakistani health authorities have launched several measures to address the situation. Public awareness campaigns are rolled out to educate citizens on the symptoms of mpox and the importance of arly medical consultation.
Preventive Measures and Public Guidance
The health authories have emphasized several preventive measures. Individuals are advised to practice good hygiene, avoid contact with infected persons, public health guidelines stress the importance of infection control in healthcare settings and community interactions to limit the virus’s transmission.
What is the risk for India?
During the 2022 global outbreak, India too reported cases of mpox, albeit of the less deadly clade II type. initially reported some people from kerala who had a history of international travel. Later those without a history of international travel got infected in Delhi. 27 laboratory confirmed cases and one death was reported in India
Conclusion
The recent confirmation of mpox cases in pakistan serves critical, the combined with public and cooperation and international support, will be essential to managing the outbreak. The focus on containing the virus and public health.
