Monkeypox in Pakistan: Causes, Symptoms, Spread, Prevention

Monkeypox in Pakistan: There are monkeypox patients in Pakistan. According to the Pakistan Ministry of National Health Services Regulation and Coordination Wing, the first two cases of Monkeypox were reported up till 26th April 2023. The authorities have placed airports on high alert to guarantee medical screening of incoming passengers, even though there is currently no evidence of localized transmission of Monkeypox in Pakistan. To offer clinical care and stop the spread of the disease, the health authorities are also implementing intensified monitoring through laboratory diagnoses, contact tracing, and quick identification of suspected cases.

Monkeypox in Pakistan

Monkeypox in Pakistan and Airport Preventive Measures

1: The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said that all international airports in Pakistan are taking aggressive steps to stop the spread of Monkeypox in conjunction with appropriate institutions. Following guidelines, airways will make sure protection measures inclusive of wearing gloves and masks during immigration.

2: In all the hospitals in the country, separate units are established to face any unfavorable situation.

3: There is a need for awareness among the masses through health education, particularly in schools and crowded places.

Read More: Health Study

What is Monkeypox Virus?

The Monkeypox virus is the cause of Monkeypox disease and is very similar to the smallpox virus in symptoms. Compared to smallpox, it is milder in severity and with low fatality rate.

Where is Monkeypox Virus Found:

Monkeypox known as Mpox virus was first identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958. The first human case was reported in 1970. Numerous nations in Central and West Africa, including Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Sudan, have experienced sporadic outbreaks of Monkeypox considering since that point. Later on, instead of patients reported from African countries, patients were reported from Europe and North America. The person who became ill with this virus even if they have no contact with African countries.

Causes: How It Enters The Body

The ingress of this pathogen into the physique of an individual in a state of robust well-being occurs via the ingestion of meat sourced from animals that are either contaminated or infected, as well as through the puncturing bite of animals harboring the virus. Subsequent to the acquisition of the infection, this viral agent can be readily disseminated from an individual or animal displaying symptoms of infection to an otherwise healthy individual, thus facilitating its transmission.

Who Is More Susceptible?

Expectant mothers, juveniles, and individuals with immunodeficiencies evince an increased predisposition to this viral pathogen. Nevertheless, it is important to underscore that irrespective of chronological age, biological sex, gender identity, or racial lineage, all individuals bear susceptibility to contracting this specific viral agent. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), the fatality rate attributed to monkeypox disease ranges between 3 to 6 percent, thus highlighting the gravity and potential lethality inherent in this malady.

Symptoms

Monkeypox patients show symptoms like fever, headache, fatigue and weakness, chills, back pain, and swollen nodes. One- three days after infection pustules or blisters appear initially on the face and then spread to the entire body, particularly on the hands and feet. These blisters can cause severe itching in the patient. These blisters undergo different stages firstly they become fluid-filled, then rupture and may or may not leave the pit mark. The incubation period of the Monkeypox virus generally spans from two to four weeks. However, in cases of heightened disease severity, it can precipitate secondary infections such as pneumonia, as well as ocular and cutaneous infections. These complications may result in substantial morbidities, including impaired visual acuity and enduring sequelae. It is imperative to promptly seek medical intervention and adhere to preventive measures to mitigate the potential for severe complications.

How is Monkeypox Spread:

It may spread through

i: Infected animals to humans through licking or biting, scratching, and direct contact with lesions or body fluids.

ii: Infected human to healthy human through contact with lesions, blood, or body fluids.

iii: Touching or vaginal/anal sex, kissing, saliva, respiratory droplets.

iv: Touching infected areas like eyes, mouth, touching infected person's bedding or towels, sneezing, coughing, and pregnant women to their fetus.

Monkeypox in Pakistan

 Diagnose

Monkeypox rashes are similar to measles and chickenpox; therefore they must be identified and differentiated from them. The preferred laboratory test for Monkeypox is polymerase chain reaction (PCR) viral DNA detection. The finest diagnostic samples are collected by vigorously swabbing skin, fluid, or crusts directly from the rash. Testing can be carried out on oropharyngeal, anal, or rectal swabs in the absence of cutaneous lesions. Blood testing is not advised. Methods for detecting antibodies may be ineffective because they cannot distinguish between several orthopoxviruses.

Treatment

There is no treatment for Monkeypox disease. Most symptoms disappear in 2-4 weeks on their own. Our immune system fights against these viruses and recovers us. Smallpox vaccine is administered to lessen the symptoms of the Monkeypox disease. The smallpox vaccine provides enough protection against Monkeypox.

Precautions and Preventive Measures

During disease, there should be no water deficiency and a well-balanced diet should be taken to avoid deficiency of any nutrients so that the body recovers within a proper time.

Other preventive measures are

i: Avoid sick animals
ii: Avoid touching contaminated bedding or towels
iii: After touching any soar, wash your hands with soap and water
iv: do not scratch soars
v: safe sex
vi: Thoroughly cooking meat

Isolation of Patients:

Monkeypox patient is advised to remain isolated for 21 days. In case of severe infection immediately consult with your healthcare service provider for treatment.

Care for Close Contact Persons:

Persons who remain in close contact with the patients; are vaccinated with the smallpox vaccine to save them from the Monkeypox disease. The smallpox vaccine provides enough protection against Monkeypox.

Conclusion

In Pakistan, there have only been a few instances of monkeypox documented. Given its proximity to regions where the endemicity of the disease prevails, coupled with the potential for viral importation through international travel and commerce, the nation is deemed to be at risk. In light of the recent emergence of Monkeypox in Pakistan, it becomes imperative to implement preventive measures, such as refraining from direct contact with infected animals and promptly seeking medical assistance in the event of exhibiting any symptomatic manifestations. The only way to remain protected from Monkeypox is to give awareness in the nation about this disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.NO. 1: How long does monkey pox last?

Monkeypox disease symptoms usually last from 2 to 4 weeks passing through different stages.

Q.NO. 2: What is the new name for Monkeypox?

The new name for Monkeypox is Mpox.

Q.NO. 3: Is Monkeypox a scary disease?

The Monkeypox fatality rate is low, but still preventive measures should be taken to avoid its complications and painful condition.