HEALTH/LIFESTYLE
Sixth Monkeypox Case Confirmed in Pakistan, Patient Arrived from Saudi Arabia
The National Institute of Health (NIH) has confirmed the sixth case of monkeypox in Pakistan. The patient, identified as 44-year-old Farooq from Gujrat, Punjab, had returned from Riyadh on September 14. Following his arrival, Farooq was isolated after showing symptoms consistent with monkeypox. Subsequent tests confirmed the presence of the monkeypox virus.
The Border Health Services compiled the technical report, which highlights that Farooq’s family members are currently undergoing testing. This case marks the sixth instance of monkeypox in Pakistan, with five cases previously reported from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
Monkeypox, caused by the Mpox virus, typically begins with a fever followed by a rash that progresses through several stages. Although the exact natural reservoir of the virus remains unidentified, African rodents and non-human primates are believed to be potential carriers. Symptoms include fever, rash, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes, with an incubation period ranging from 7 to 14 days.