Monkeypox cases detected in Pakistan

Two cases of monkeypox have been detected in Islamabad, originating from Saudi Arabia, according to officials who confirmed the development on Tuesday.

Following the detection of the virus, hospitals in Sindh have been advised to take proactive steps for the management of suspected or confirmed cases.

An advisory issued by Directorate General Health Services Sindh stated that the hospital administration is required to establish a designated separate area with five to 10 rooms for isolation of monkeypox cases within 24 hours.

The area should include appropriate infection control measures, such as negative pressure, hand hygiene facilities, and personal protective equipment to provide safe and effective care for patients.

It also said that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported cases of monkeypox in 110 member states across all six WHO regions since January 2022.