Pakistan Reports First Case of Mpox Virus

Initial Details of the Case

On August 15, 2024, at 10:06 PM PDT, Pakistan's health ministry confirmed at least one case of the mpox virus.

The infected patient had recently returned from a Gulf country.

Sequencing is underway to determine the specific strain of the virus.

Updates and Further Information

• The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared mpox a global health emergency.
• Pakistan is the latest country to report a case of mpox, following recent detections in Sweden.
• Mpox is a rare but potentially serious disease caused by the mpox virus, which belongs to the same family as smallpox.

Pakistani health authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms, which can include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.

Prevention and Control Measures

The WHO recommends several measures to prevent and control the spread of mpox:

• Avoiding close contact with infected individuals or animals
• Practicing good hygiene, including frequent hand washing
• Using personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for an infected person
• Getting vaccinated, if eligible

For more information on mpox, please refer to the WHO website or your local health authority.