PAKISTAN has recently confirmed its first case of Mpox, raising alarms as the virus spreads globally. This development comes on the heels of Sweden’s identification of a more contagious and potentially deadlier variant linked to a recent outbreak in Africa. While the specific strain involved in Pakistan’s case is still unknown, the situation underscores the need for immediate assessment of our country’s capacity to manage and contain a potential outbreak.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is caused by the monkeypox virus. It is primarily transmitted through close contact with an infected person or through contact with contaminated surfaces. The virus can also be spread from animals to humans in regions where the virus is present among wildlife. Common symptoms of Mpox include a rash that can last between 2-4 weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. In severe cases, the virus can lead to complications such as secondary bacterial infections, pneumonia, and even death, particularly among vulnerable populations like newborns, children, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. The confirmation of an Mpox case in Pakistan calls for a heightened state of vigilance, especially at entry points across the country, such as airports and land borders. Screening procedures should be enhanced to detect and isolate potential cases before they can contribute to community spread. The experience of other countries, where the virus spread rapidly due to close contacts, serves as a warning that Pakistan cannot afford to be complacent. Comprehensive surveillance at these entry points is crucial to prevent the virus from gaining a foothold in the country.
Public health education is another critical area that needs attention. The general population must be informed about the symptoms of Mpox and the modes of transmission to reduce the risk of spreading the virus unknowingly. This is especially important in densely populated areas where the virus could spread quickly. Moreover, in a country where misinformation can easily take root, it is vital to provide clear, accurate, and timely information to prevent panic and stigmatization of those who may be affected.
Stigma attached to diseases like Mpox can be particularly harmful, leading to individuals being ostracized from their communities, facing discrimination, or even avoiding seeking medical care due to fear of being judged. This social stigma can hinder efforts to control the virus, as people may hide symptoms or avoid reporting cases. Public health campaigns must therefore emphasize empathy and support for those affected, ensuring that communities respond with understanding rather than fear.
Given the global nature of the outbreak and the recent spread of the virus to countries outside Africa, it is essential that Pakistan strengthens its healthcare infrastructure to handle potential outbreaks. This includes not only ensuring that hospitals and clinics are equipped with the necessary supplies and trained personnel to treat Mpox cases but also that healthcare workers are adequately protected from the virus.
The previous global outbreak of Mpox in 2022, which mostly affected gay and bisexual men, highlighted the importance of targeted public health messaging and the need to avoid stigmatizing any group. To manage a potential outbreak effectively, Pakistan must also consider its capacity for widespread vaccination, should an effective vaccine become available. This would require not only securing sufficient doses but also setting up distribution networks that can reach even the most remote areas of the country. Pakistan’s role as a significant player on the international stage brings with it the responsibility to contribute to global efforts in controlling the spread of Mpox. By improving our understanding of the virus, investing in research and sharing findings with the international community, Pakistan can help shape the global response to this emerging threat.
—The writer is Associate Professor, Health Services Academy, Islamabad.
