Monkeypox in Karachi: Understanding the Virus, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

The Sindh health authorities recently confirmed the first case of monkeypox in Karachi after a 28-year-old resident of Shah Latif Town tested positive. The patient is believed to have contracted the virus from his wife, who had recently returned from abroad. Following the diagnosis, he was immediately placed in an isolation ward, and stringent precautionary measures were implemented to prevent further spread.

This case marks Sindh’s first reported monkeypox infection and Pakistan’s second locally transmitted case after a 29-year-old patient in Peshawar tested positive last week. The detection of local transmission raises serious concerns about the virus spreading within the country, prompting authorities to intensify screening at airports and border entry points.

What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family as smallpox. However, monkeypox is generally less severe. It was first discovered in 1958 when outbreaks of a “pox-like” disease were reported in laboratory monkeys, leading to the name monkeypox. The first human case was identified in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The virus is endemic in Central and West Africa, but in recent years, cases have been reported worldwide due to increased global travel. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the virus can spread through close contact with infected individuals, bodily fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated objects such as bedding and clothing.

Who is at Risk?

While monkeypox can affect anyone, certain groups are at a higher risk of severe infection, including:

• Infants and young children
• Pregnant women
• Individuals with weakened immune systems

The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that some outbreaks of Clade I monkeypox have had fatality rates of up to 10%, while Clade II has a much lower fatality rate of 0.2%.

Symptoms of Monkeypox

The symptoms of monkeypox typically appear 5 to 21 days after exposure and often mimic flu-like illnesses. Common symptoms include:

• Fever and chills
• Severe headaches
• Muscle aches and back pain
• Fatigue and exhaustion
• Swollen lymph nodes (a key distinguishing factor from other poxviruses)
• Painful skin rashes and lesions, which start as flat red spots, develop into pus-filled blisters, and eventually scab over

Most people recover within two to four weeks without hospitalization. However, complications such as pneumonia, secondary infections, or inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) can occur in severe cases.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing monkeypox involves multiple public health measures, including:

1. Monkeypox Vaccination

Vaccination against smallpox has been found to be 85% effective against monkeypox. The JYNNEOS vaccine, a modified smallpox vaccine, is recommended for individuals exposed to the virus or at high risk.

2. Hygiene and Personal Protection from Monkeypox

• Regular handwashing with soap and water
• Avoiding close contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials
• Using personal protective equipment (PPE)

3. Travel Screening and Isolation

Following the confirmed case in Karachi, the Sindh Health Department has directed authorities to expedite screening for incoming and outgoing passengers. Any individuals showing symptoms are to be isolated immediately.

Treatment and Management of Monkeypox

While there is no specific antiviral treatment exclusively for monkeypox, supportive care and symptom management can help patients recover. Some key approaches include:

1. Antiviral Medications

Drugs such as Tecovirimat (TPOXX), originally developed for smallpox, have shown effectiveness in treating severe monkeypox cases.

2. Pain and Symptom Relief

• Fever reducers (Paracetamol, Ibuprofen)
• Antihistamines for itching
• Topical treatments to soothe rashes and lesions

3. Isolation and Monitoring

Patients should remain in isolation until their scabs have fallen off, indicating they are no longer contagious. Regular health check-ups are necessary to track recovery.

The Need for Public Awareness

Public awareness plays a crucial role in preventing misinformation and panic. The government, health organizations, and media must ensure that accurate and timely information reaches the masses.

With proper surveillance, vaccination, and hygiene measures, the spread of monkeypox can be effectively controlled. As Pakistan strengthens its screening protocols, citizens must remain vigilant and proactive in following health guidelines to prevent a larger outbreak.

By prioritizing prevention, early detection, and effective management, Pakistan can mitigate the risks of monkeypox and ensure public health safety in the long run. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging people to report symptoms and seek medical attention if needed.