LHC seeks responses on petition over rise in monkeypox cases

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court on Monday issued notices to the health department and other relevant authorities on a petition concerning an increase in monkeypox cases and alleged shortcomings in the public health response.

Justice Owais Khalid heard the petition, which was filed by the Judicial Activism Panel. According to the petition, the authorities had not taken effective measures to contain the spread of the virus despite a steady rise in reported infections.

During the hearing, the petitioner argued that testing arrangements remained insufficient because of a lack of proper laboratory facilities. The petition also said public awareness efforts regarding the disease were largely inadequate.

The plea further stated that there was no comprehensive and transparent data available on monkeypox infections, adding that limited disclosure was making it difficult to accurately assess the situation.

Petition seeks coordinated action

The petitioner asked the court to direct federal and provincial health authorities to take immediate and coordinated steps to address the issue. These measures, the petition said, should include improving diagnostic and treatment facilities as well as launching effective awareness campaigns to inform the public about symptoms and prevention.

The court sought replies from the relevant authorities, and further proceedings are expected after their responses are submitted.

Issues raised before the court

The petition placed particular emphasis on what it described as gaps in preparedness and response. It maintained that the shortage of proper laboratory facilities had affected testing capacity, while the absence of sufficient public messaging had limited awareness about the disease.

It also highlighted concerns over the availability of official information, saying that incomplete disclosure of case data was hindering a clear understanding of the scale of infections.

With notices now issued, the matter will proceed after the departments and authorities concerned place their position before the court.