Airports placed on high alert amid global rise in Mpox cases

ISLAMABAD: All airports across the country have been put on high alert due to rise in monkeypox (Mpox) cases globally, according to the health ministry.

However, the ministry has also clarified that no case of mpox in Pakistan has emerged.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday declared the spread of Mpox to be a global public health emergency, the second time in two years it has categorised the virus as such.

Over 500 deaths have been recorded in central Africa as fears grow that Mpox could spread beyond the continent. African health authorities have appealed for more vaccines.

The National Command and Operations Center (NCOC) issued an alert to the Border Health Services to maintain strict vigilance at all points of entry in response to the rising cases of Mpox globally, and the recent outbreak of the Zika virus in Pune, India.

Mpox: WHO declares global health emergency

In response to the emerging threat, all airports across the country have been put on alert, with specific instructions issued to maintain heightened vigilance.

The Ministry of Health has also strengthened screening systems at all entry points across the country, ensuring robust measures are in place to protect the public from the virus.

The Ministry’s spokesperson emphasized that efforts are being made to ensure the safety of the public against the outbreak. Both national and provincial public health laboratories are fully prepared to confirm the presence of the Mpox virus, should it be detected.

These viruses, carried by mosquitoes present in Pakistan, pose a significant threat, especially during the ongoing monsoon season when accumulated rainwater creates ideal breeding conditions.