This news highlights the global concern over the Clade 1b strain of the mpox virus, particularly after its recent detection in Sweden, linked to an ongoing outbreak in Africa. The Clade 1b variant is alarming because it appears to spread more easily through routine close contact. While no cases of this strain have been reported in Pakistan, the country’s health ministry remains vigilant, especially following the detection of a case involving the Clade 2 variety.
In response, Pakistan has heightened screening efforts at all entry points, including airports, seaports, and borders. The National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC) has been instructed to stay alert, conduct daily evaluations, and ensure the availability of necessary equipment for mpox assessment.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak of the new variant in Africa a public health emergency of international concern. The situation is particularly severe in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where over 27,000 cases and more than 1,100 deaths, primarily among children, have been reported since January 2023. The disease, characterized by flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions, is generally mild but can be fatal, especially for children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Despite the spread of the Clade 1b strain outside Africa, the WHO has not recommended any travel restrictions, though it remains a situation of high concern. The global health community continues to monitor the situation closely, with efforts focused on containment and preventing further spread.
