KARACHI: Sindh province is grappling with a significant rise in monkeypox (mpox) cases, with 122 suspected infections reported by the provincial health department. Tragically, nine people have succumbed to the disease so far. Among these cases, 25 have been confirmed through laboratory testing.
In the past 24 hours, two new cases emerged—one in Karachi and another in Khairpur. Khairpur remains the hardest hit area, recording 18 confirmed cases, followed by Karachi with four and Sukkur with three.
In a significant development, the health department has launched several emergency measures to contain the outbreak. Isolation wards have been promptly set up in major hospitals throughout the province to manage infected patients. Additionally, specialized surveillance units have been activated to oversee the collection and transportation of medical samples.
Contact tracing efforts are underway, focusing on medical staff and close contacts who may have been exposed to the virus. Hospitals have also been instructed to enforce strict sterilization protocols and enhance infection control procedures to prevent further spread.
The health authorities have intensified their search for active cases in affected areas and are urging both the public and healthcare workers to rigorously follow precautionary guidelines. Officials stressed the importance of seeking immediate medical care if symptoms develop. They also highlighted the heightened vulnerability of newborns and infants, calling for special attention to protect these groups.
