The first case of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) for the year 2024 has been reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The infected individual arrived from Saudi Arabia on August 3, 2024. After experiencing mild health issues, the individual underwent testing, which confirmed the presence of Mpox on August 13. While the symptoms are currently mild, precautionary measures are essential to prevent further spread.
Health officials have taken samples from those who came into contact with the infected person to ensure the virus does not spread. Mpox is an infection that can be transmitted through bites or contact with wild animals. Additionally, touching an infected person's body or objects they have used can also lead to the spread of the virus. Although Mpox is not generally considered highly dangerous, it can be life-threatening in certain cases.
Common symptoms of Mpox include headaches, body aches, weakness, fever, flu-like symptoms, and painful, pus-filled blisters that appear on the body. These symptoms can cause significant discomfort for the affected individual.
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Mpox has been declared a global health emergency, with a low mortality rate but a high risk of spread. The World Health Organization (WHO) has noted the emergence of a new variant of Mpox in African countries, which has prompted emergency status due to its rapid spread.
In response to the situation, the Director General of Health chaired a meeting where key guidelines for managing Mpox were issued. Focal persons have been appointed in all provinces to oversee preventive measures, and strict surveillance instructions have been given to border health services.
Global health authorities have recommended several precautions to prevent the spread of Mpox. These include avoiding contact with the belongings of infected individuals, staying away from wild animals, washing hands with soap regularly, and consuming home-cooked food to minimize risk.
The Ministry of Health has ordered the isolation of Mpox cases in hospitals and instructed airports to arrange for the transportation of suspected cases to medical facilities. A nationwide campaign to report and monitor Mpox cases has also been initiated.
As of now, 99,518 cases of Mpox have been reported worldwide, with 208 confirmed deaths. In the past two years, Pakistan has seen 11 cases, including one fatality.
The first case of Mpox was identified in the 1970s in Congo, and since then, the infection has gradually spread across the globe. Recently, there has been a noticeable increase in Mpox cases, particularly in Africa.
As this viral infection continues to spread globally, it is crucial to take precautions to protect yourself and those around you.
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