Pakistan reports another monkeypox case

ISLAMABAD: A new case of monkeypox has been confirmed in Pakistan.

A 32-year-old male, who traveled to Islamabad from a Gulf nation, has tested positive for monkeypox.

Officials from the ministry have indicated that this case marks the eighth instance of monkeypox reported in Pakistan this year, following the patient's arrival at Islamabad Airport.

The individual, originally from the Upper Dir region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is currently receiving treatment at PIMS Hospital, where the head of Infectious Diseases has reported that his condition remains stable.

In related news, the World Health Organization (WHO) has granted approval for the first monkeypox vaccine, known as MVA-BN.

This vaccine is intended for individuals aged 18 and older and is administered in two doses, spaced four weeks apart. It has been shown to be 76% effective after the first dose and 82% effective following the second dose.

The WHO has classified monkeypox as a public health emergency.

In 2023, Pakistan has recorded a total of 11 cases of mpox, including one fatality.

In light of the ongoing situation, the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has called on the government to adopt emergency measures to prevent the virus's entry and spread within the country.

The PMA has also emphasized the importance of enhancing contact tracing and isolation protocols for suspected cases to manage the outbreak effectively.