Another mpox case confirmed in Karachi

KARACHI: Another confirmed case of mpox has been reported in Karachi, with an infectious diseases specialist at Aga Khan Hospital confirming the development. The patient is currently receiving treatment at the hospital.

Dr Fatima Mir said investigations into suspected mpox cases are under way in different parts of Sindh, including Khairpur district. She said initial findings suggest that some of those suspected cases could return positive results.

According to Dr Mir, the Sindh government’s relevant health authorities are closely monitoring the situation as inquiries and testing continue.

Ongoing investigations in Sindh

The latest case comes as health officials and medical experts continue to examine suspected infections in multiple areas of the province. Dr Mir said the process of investigating possible cases is continuing, particularly in Sindh, where concerns have also emerged from Khairpur.

She indicated that early reports from some of the suspected cases point to the possibility of positive test results, though no further figures or details were provided.

How the disease spreads

Dr Mir explained that mpox is a viral disease that is mainly spread through close skin-to-skin contact. Patients usually develop a blister-like rash that starts as spots and later turns into firm lesions.

She added that in some cases, the virus may also spread through respiratory droplets.

Symptoms and treatment

Dr Mir said the disease mostly affects adults. She also said there is currently no specific treatment for mpox available in Pakistan.

However, she explained that patients are given supportive care to manage symptoms. This includes treatment for fever and body aches, pain control for skin lesions, and oxygen support in severe cases.

The symptoms highlighted by Dr Mir included fever, body aches and painful skin lesions.

Public precaution urged

Dr Mir urged people to take preventive steps, saying that direct contact with infected individuals without protective equipment such as gloves and masks could raise the risk of transmission.

The latest confirmed case adds to concerns over the spread of mpox in Sindh as health authorities continue surveillance and investigations into suspected infections in the province.