In response to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recent declaration of monkeypox (mpox) as a public health emergency of international concern, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to remain vigilant and strengthen preventive measures against the virus.
During a high-level meeting on Saturday, PM Sharif emphasized the importance of effective screening at airports, seaports, and borders. He instructed the National Command and Operations Center (NCOC) to stay alert, conduct daily evaluations, and ensure the availability of necessary equipment and testing kits. The prime minister also called for increased coordination between federal and provincial governments, as well as the governments of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, to manage the situation.
Key officials in attendance included PM’s Coordinator on National Health Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Federal Secretary for National Health Nadeem Mehboob, and Chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Lt-Gen Inam Haider Malik. The meeting focused on preventing the spread of mpox, with officials confirming that no local transmission has been detected in Pakistan. However, a recent case was reported in Mardan district, where a patient who had returned from abroad is currently in quarantine and in stable condition.
Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad reassured the public during a press conference that only one case of mpox has been confirmed in Pakistan so far. Surveillance and screening measures are now in place at all airports and entry points across the country, and designated laboratories are prepared for diagnosis. The government is closely monitoring travelers from regions with reported mpox cases, including Africa, America, and Gulf countries.
Dr. Ahmad highlighted the global impact of mpox, noting that approximately 99,000 cases have been reported worldwide, with 200 fatalities. He stressed the importance of quarantine and treatment for those showing symptoms and urged the public to take precautions, especially if they have recently traveled to affected areas.
The meeting also assured that awareness campaigns are underway, with isolation wards and beds allocated in major hospitals nationwide to prepare for potential cases. All precautionary measures remain in place as Pakistan continues its efforts to curb the spread of mpox.
