Monkeypox detected in Saudi Arabia returnee at Karachi airport

A traveler who arrived in Karachi from Saudi Arabia on a foreign airline has been diagnosed with the monkeypox virus.

As per initial reports, the passenger underwent health screening at the airport, where officials noticed symptoms matching the infection.

The individual was found to have a high fever and skin rashes, and also disclosed having a persistent fever for the past five days.

In response, the Sindh health authorities immediately shifted the patient to the Infectious Diseases Hospital in NIPA for medical evaluation, treatment, and isolation to prevent any potential spread of the virus.

Monkeypox, also called Mpox, is a disease caused by a virus related to the one that causes smallpox.

The infection spreads through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or by touching contaminated objects such as bedding or clothing.

The best way to prevent the virus is through self-care, practicing good hygiene, avoiding contact with infected individuals or animals. Vaccination for high-risk groups is also recommended to help stop the spread of Mpox.

The symptoms usually appear within one to three weeks. Infected individuals can experience high fever, swollen glands, rashes, and headache. Though recovery is possible within a few weeks, some cases can become severe.