By: Areeba Fareed, Aariz Hussain, Fatima Faraz, and Rima Siblini
In April 2023, Pakistan reported its first confirmed case of monkeypox disease or MPox virus, marking a new challenge in the country's public health system. Three more monkeypox virus or MPox virus cases confirmed by health ministry in Aug 16, 2024 in Pakistan. The detection of this painful zoontic and contagious viral disease, caused by the monkeypox virus or Mpox virus, underscores the ongoing threats and challenges that healthcare systems is facing globally, especially in the context of rapidly emerging contagious diseases.Background and Initial Response
Monkeypox virus or MPox virus is a member of the Poxviridae family, has been known to science since 1958, but its human transmission was rare until the last few decades. Historically, it was endemic to African countries, but new strains of monkeypox virus or MPox virus are spreading globally, with the first cases of the current outbreak identified in Europe in May 2022. The World Health Organization (WHO) subsequently declared the outbreak a global public health emergency in June 2022.
Pakistan’s first confirmed case was reported in April 2023, a 25-year-old man who had recently returned from Saudi Arabia got affected. National health authorities immediately isolated the patient and his close contacts, as well as the established a multidisciplinary team by the National Institute of Health (NIH) to contain the disease.
Challenges in Diagnosis and Prevention of MPox Virus
Monkeypox symptoms or MPox symptoms are similar to smallpox, chickenpox, and even allergic reactions, making early diagnosis difficult. Therefore, laboratory confirmation, primarily through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, is essential for accurate detection. However, Pakistan’s healthcare system faces significant challenges, including a lack of necessary PCR testing kits and resources. This scarcity of resources highlights the urgent need for the government and health authorities to procure adequate supplies to prevent a potential epidemic.
Vaccination against smallpox has proven to be about 85% effective in preventing MPox virus, but vaccine coverage is limited, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Pakistan. This gap in vaccination highlights the disparities in global health and the need for equitable access to preventive measures.
Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic provided profound experience and critical lessons that can be applied for monkeypox disease (MPox virus) management. Pakistan healthcare system was relatively successful in controlling COVID-19 through timely interventions and strict public health measures. A similar approach can be used in mpox disease spread including
- Emphasizing early detection
- Rapid testing
- Social distancing and
- Quarantine measures
Moreover, the pandemic emphasized the importance of a coordinated response among government agencies, healthcare providers, and the public. In the case of monkeypox disease or MPox virus, non-governmental organizations and civil society have already played a vital role in prevention efforts through community education and resource mobilization.
Looking Ahead: The Need for Continued Research and Preparedness
As Monkeypox virus or MPox virus continues to pose a threat, ongoing surveillance and research is essential to broaden our understanding of the monkeypox virus and its transmission. Developing effective treatments and vaccines will be critical in preventing future outbreaks. Additionally, strengthening healthcare system and ensuring access to diagnostic facilities are imperative for countries like Pakistan to develop effective mitigation strategy.
In conclusion, the first case of monkeypox or MPox virus in Pakistan served as stark reminder of the need for vigilance, preparedness, and a coordinated global response to infectious diseases. By learning from past pandemics and investing in healthcare systems, we can better protect populations from future health crises.
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FAQ’s
Q1: When First Monkeypox Case or MPox Case reported in Pakistan?
A1: Pakistan’s first confirmed case was reported in April 2023, a 25-year-old man who had recently returned from Saudi Arabia got affected.