Monkeypox: 47-year-old man from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa tests positive

Fourth case of monkeypox reported from Peshawar

The Ministry of Health confirmed on Sunday that a fourth case of monkeypox has been reported from Peshawar. 

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, a spokesperson from the ministry said the affected person is a 47-year-old citizen from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, who was isolated on August 29 by Border Health Services staff after exhibiting symptoms. The patient had recently returned from the Gulf countries.

Dr Mukhtar Bharath, the National Coordinator for Health, stated that an effective screening system is operational at all airports across the country. 

He emphasised that Pakistan has implemented robust measures to prevent the spread of monkeypox, with the federal capital and provincial governments working in close coordination.

Dr Bharath reassured the public that the government is committed to ensuring all necessary precautions are taken promptly. 

He added that the Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation and is in constant communication with provincial authorities to maintain readiness and take preventive actions.

Suspected monkeypox case from Saudi Arabia tests negative in Karachi

The Sindh Health Department has confirmed that a suspected case of monkeypox from Saudi Arabia has tested negative. The patient, who arrived at Karachi Airport showing symptoms of monkeypox, was immediately transferred to the Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital in NIPA for further evaluation.

According to health officials, the 32-year-old traveller exhibited symptoms consistent with monkeypox upon arrival from Saudi Arabia. However, after conducting a thorough medical evaluation and testing, the results came back negative for the virus.

Health experts have appealed to the public to continue following preventive measures despite the negative results, emphasising the importance of vigilance and caution.

Reporter: Faran Khan