Pakistan: Five cases of Mpox infections raise growing concerns

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is intensifying its fight against MPOX as fears grow that Peshawar is becoming a hotspot for the viral disease. The metropolis reported its fourth case of the infectious disease on Sunday, taking the nationwide total this year to five.

The new case of Mpox was identified in a 47-year-old man on August 29 after he was isolated by Border Health Service staff. The patient had returned from the Middle East, raising fears that the disease was being transmitted by travellers from the Gulf region.

“This is the fifth MPOX case reported this year. [in the country] and the fourth since the WHO declared Mpox a global health emergency,” said Dr. Shabana Saleem, the director general of the Federal Ministry of Health, on Sunday.

“The re-emergence of the virus in Peshawar raises serious concerns about its transmission and requires immediate action.”

She stressed the need for vigilance and highlighted that all recent cases involved people who had travelled to the Gulf States in the past.

“Peshawar appears to be emerging as an epicenter for Mpox cases,” she said. “This trend is worrying and we are redoubling our efforts to prevent further spread.”

The authorities have tightened their measures to contain the virus; strict control protocols are now in place at all airports.

“We are not taking any risks. There are effective screening systems in place across the country,” Dr. Saleem assured, pointing to the government's commitment to protecting public health.

Federal and provincial health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and ensuring that all necessary steps are taken promptly.

“We are working around the clock to ensure that all preventive measures are in place and effective,” said Dr. Saleem. “The Ministry of Health is continuously monitoring the situation and we are ready to respond immediately to any developments.”

The rise in MPOX cases in Peshawar has raised concerns among health experts and the public alike, leading to calls for increased awareness and stricter travel guidelines.

The Director General of the Federal Health Office urged the population to remain vigilant and follow health advice, especially those returning from high-risk areas.

“Public cooperation is critical to prevent the spread of Mpox,” she warned. “Together, we can contain this virus before it spreads even further.”