In a world still recovering from the devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic, another viral outbreak—Mpox—has sparked concern. Mpox first appeared in humans in the 1970s, so it is not new. However, a recent spike in infections, particularly from the more virulent Clade 1 strain, has raised alarm. The World Health Organization (WHO) has proclaimed Mpox a “public health emergency.” The virus has far-reaching consequences globally, including in Pakistan, which reported its first case in 2022. As the virus spreads across continents, including countries like Sweden and Pakistan, it is vital to understand what Mpox is. It is also important to know how it spreads and what measures Pakistan must take to mitigate its impact.
What Is Mpox and How Does it Spread?
Mpox is a zoonotic virus, meaning it spreads from animals to humans. It belongs to the same family as the smallpox virus, although it causes milder symptoms.
Historically, Mpox was limited to Central and West Africa, but after 2022, the virus has gained global traction, causing serious illness and even fatalities in rare cases.
The virus infects the body through damaged skin or mucous membranes like the respiratory tract. It then travels via the bloodstream, causing flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle pains, and characteristic pus-filled sores on the skin. Most infections resolve within 2-4 weeks, but individuals with compromised immune systems, like untreated HIV patients, or children, are at higher risk of severe illness.
Clade 1 strain has raised alarms due to its more severe symptoms and quicker spread, particularly through intimate contact, including sexual transmission. This poses significant challenges for countries like Pakistan, where population density and limited healthcare facilities exacerbate the risk of a rapid spread.
Mpox in Pakistan: A Wake-up Call
In September 2024, Pakistan confirmed its sixth case of Mpox, raising alarms about the country’s preparedness.
A 33-year-old worker from Saudi Arabia bypassed screening at Islamabad Airport, despite showing clear symptoms, highlighting flaws in Pakistan’s border control measures. The patient was only detected after seeking medical help in Peshawar, indicating the need for more stringent surveillance systems.
Global Spread and Lessons from COVID-19
Mpox outbreak is not confined to Pakistan. Following the WHO’s declaration of a public health emergency, cases have been recorded across Europe and Africa, with Sweden and Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) among the most affected regions. The Africa Centres for Disease Control (CDC) reported a staggering 160% increase in cases in 2023, with a corresponding 19% increase in deaths.
Key Takeaways from COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of early diagnosis, containment, and international cooperation. While the likelihood of a global Mpox epidemic seems low, complacency could be fatal. Countries must implement early warning systems, improve diagnostics, and ensure equitable access to vaccines.
One of the biggest challenges is vaccine availability. While some Western countries have stocked Mpox vaccines, African nations face critical shortages. With only 140,000 doses available in Africa, a large portion of the population remains vulnerable.
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Pakistan’s Response: Immediate and Long-term Measures
Short-term Measures
Pakistan must immediately address weaknesses in its surveillance and screening systems. Major international airports like Islamabad and Karachi should upgrade screening protocols, incorporating not just temperature checks but also detailed symptom questionnaires and visual inspection of skin lesions.
Public Awareness Campaigns
Public education, particularly in rural areas, is crucial. COVID-19 taught us the value of early hygiene measures, social distancing, and seeking medical help at the first sign of illness to prevent widespread transmission.
Long-term Strategies
Pakistan must work closely with international bodies like the WHO and Africa CDC to secure vaccines and antiviral drugs. While there’s no specific treatment for Mpox, some antiviral drugs are being researched. Vaccination remains the most effective measure to prevent severe illness.
A Global Threat Demands Collective Action
The Mpox epidemic provides another reminder of how linked the modern world is.
A virus that began in rural African communities has already spread to Europe and Asia, revealing how easily infectious illnesses may traverse boundaries in today’s globalised world.
For Pakistan, the consequences are clear: the government must strengthen its public health infrastructure, increase screening at entry points, and provide access to life-saving immunisations. At the same time, international collaboration and fair vaccination distribution are critical for preventing the virus from causing a worldwide pandemic.
As experts continue to investigate the virus, one thing is clear: the world cannot afford to ignore the warning signs. The Mpox outbreak is a wake-up call for countries to act boldly, learn from history, and collaborate to avoid the next global health calamity.
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own. They do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of the South Asia Times.
