Pakistan reports first Mpox case in Asia; Airports on high alert

Islamabad: Pakistan has reported its first case of mpox, marking the first instance of the virus being identified in Asia. In response, Pakistan's Border Health Services have issued a new directive to enhance monitoring and safety protocols at all entry points, including airports, according to reports.

The move aims to prevent the virus from entering the country. The notification calls for stricter screening of passengers, especially those showing suspicious wounds or symptoms linked to mpox. The government has also instructed officials to improve existing systems at entry points to manage the situation effectively.

On Friday, the health ministry confirmed the first case of mpox in Pakistan. The virus's specific strain is still unknown. The patient, who had recently traveled from a Gulf country, is undergoing further testing to identify the exact variant.

Earlier, the health department in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province corrected its report, stating only one mpox case had been confirmed, not three as previously mentioned. This case involved a traveler from the UAE.

The new strain of mpox has raised global alarm due to its potential for easier transmission through close contact. A similar variant was recently detected in Sweden and is linked to an ongoing outbreak in Africa, marking its spread beyond the continent.

Despite these developments, the World Health Organization has recommended against implementing travel restrictions to control the mpox outbreak.

Agencies