Pakistan Finds First Mpox Case of 2024, Takes Action to Stay Safe

It wasn’t until 2024 that the first case of Mpox was detected in Pakistan. Mpox is a zoonosis, a disease that infects people. This was announced immediately after the World Health Organization had declared Mpox a general health concern.

Who Fell Sick?

A young man from Dir, currently residing in Mardan, contracted Mpox. The individual had recently returned from a Middle Eastern country on August 3. Doctors tested him and confirmed that he indeed had the Mpox.

What Is Pakistan Doing About It?

Pakistan is getting very cautious. They’re undertaking a few serious measures:

1. Searching for anyone who might have come into contact with the infected man

2. Informing the doctors and nurses at the border to keep a look out for more cases

3. Preparation of special rooms in hospitals for sick people

4. Supplies of sufficient medicine and safety gear for doctors and nurses

Has This Happened Before?

Yes, it has. In the past two years, there have been 11 cases of Mpox in Pakistan. Last year, a patient having both Mpox and HIV grew seriously ill and died in a hospital at Islamabad.

Where Are the Cases Coming From?

All cases of Mpox in Pakistan have been people who have come to this country from other countries, in particular from the Middle East. That is why it is important to screen passengers properly when they get into this country.

What is the situation in other countries?

Mpox is now moving to other regions. At the moment, there are confirmed cases of Mpox in about fifteen countries in Africa. A few countries that had never reported any cases at all started doing so in July 2024. This actually means the disease is spreading to other areas.

What Should People Know?

People must always be cautious; even more so when they are touring. If you ever get sick after a trip, make sure to inform your doctor. As much as the government is investing a lot of effort to ensure that all are safe, all can contribute by being cautious and hygienic.