A total of 21 monkeypox cases have been reported at Mayo Hospital, Lahore, over the past six months, citing hospital officials.
According to authorities, none of the patients diagnosed with monkeypox had a history of recent foreign travel, raising concerns about local transmission. Currently, nine patients are undergoing treatment at Mayo Hospital.
Officials further confirmed that samples from three suspected monkeypox patients have been sent to the Health Department for laboratory testing. Reports also indicate that three deaths linked to monkeypox have been recorded in Lahore so far.
Most of the affected individuals fall between the ages of 20 and 45. Among the confirmed cases are a nurse and two paramedical staff members from Mayo Hospital, highlighting the risk faced by healthcare workers. Additionally, two children have also been diagnosed with the virus.
In response to the situation, Mayo Hospital has established a dedicated isolation ward for the treatment and monitoring of monkeypox patients to prevent further spread of the infection.
Monkeypox, also known as Mpox, is a viral disease caused by the Mpox virus. While the natural reservoir of the virus has not been definitively identified, experts believe that African rodents and non-human primates, including monkeys, may carry the virus and transmit it to humans.
The disease typically begins with fever, followed by the appearance of a rash within one to three days. The rash usually starts on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. It progresses through several stages, including macules, papules, vesicles, pustules, and finally scabs.
Other common symptoms include headache, muscle pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. The incubation period generally ranges from 7 to 14 days but can vary between 5 and 21 days. The illness usually lasts between two to four weeks.
