Islamabad, Feb 25: The first locally transmitted case of Mpox (Monkeypox) has been confirmed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, marking a significant development in the country’s health landscape. Health Advisor Ihtesham Ali stated that, until now, all reported cases were linked to individuals returning from international travel. However, this latest case signals a shift, indicating potential domestic transmission.
The infected patient, a woman, was admitted to a hospital after experiencing fever and body aches. Subsequent tests confirmed Mpox, with health officials tracing the likely source to her husband, who had recently returned from a Gulf country and was also diagnosed with the virus.
Director of Public Health Dr. Fazal Majeed disclosed that the woman was admitted on February 18, and by February 19, she developed rashes on her body and inside her mouth. Her samples were sent to the Public Health Reference Laboratory in Peshawar, which confirmed the disease on February 21.
Health authorities have completed screening for the patient’s husband and other close contacts, advising them to remain in home isolation to prevent further spread. In response, the Director General of Health Services Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has deployed a Rapid Response Team to conduct further investigations and assess potential risks in the community.
Dr. Fazal Majeed urged the public to remain vigilant about Mpox symptoms and seek immediate medical attention if they experience fever, body aches, or skin rashes. Health officials emphasize that early detection and isolation are critical to containing the disease and preventing wider transmission.
