The National Command and Operation Center (NCOC) on Wednesday issued an alert to border health services in response to a significant increase in monkeypox cases globally and the emergence of the Zika virus in India.
NCOC officials have directed that all travellers arriving from abroad be closely monitored, particularly for symptoms associated with monkeypox. In cases where individuals are suspected of being infected, they are to be isolated in designated quarantine wards to prevent the potential spread of the virus.
As of now, Pakistan has reported nine confirmed cases of monkeypox, resulting in one fatality. All the affected individuals had recently returned from Arab countries, indicating that the disease has not yet established a local foothold within the country.
In a related development, the NCOC highlighted the concerning spread of the Zika virus in the Indian city of Pune, where over 80 cases and multiple fatalities have been reported. The mosquito species responsible for transmitting the Zika virus is also found in Pakistan, raising further concerns about potential outbreaks.
The Aga Khan University previously confirmed the presence of the Zika virus in Karachi during 2021 and 2022, prompting authorities to reinforce surveillance and preventive measures against mosquito-borne diseases.
The NCOC's alert comes as part of broader efforts to safeguard public health amidst growing threats from infectious diseases, urging health officials and the public to remain vigilant.
