Is a Smart Lockdown Necessary in Pakistan Due to Rising Mpox Cases?
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Synopsis
In light of rising mpox cases, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa authorities have implemented a smart lockdown in Bajaur district. This proactive measure aims to contain the spread of the virus as the region grapples with health concerns stemming from international travel.
Key Takeaways
- Smart lockdown imposed to control mpox spread.
- Authorities have sealed entry and exit points.
- Only essential services allowed to operate.
- Residents urged to stay indoors and follow health guidelines.
- Intensified surveillance for suspected cases.
Islamabad, May 3 (NationPress) The authorities in the northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan, have enacted a 12-day smart lockdown in a specific locality within the Bajaur district due to an increase in mpox cases, according to official announcements.
The lockdown commenced earlier this week after the province documented 17 confirmed cases of mpox over the last three years, with most cases linked to individuals returning from regions where the disease is endemic, as stated in a notification from the Deputy Commissioner of Bajaur.
Reports indicate that many of the mpox patients traveled from the United Arab Emirates or Saudi Arabia, both areas where the disease is prevalent, as per information from Xinhua news agency.
In August of the previous year, the World Health Organisation classified mpox as an emergency of international concern.
The district administration has sealed all entry and exit points of the affected area to prevent any further transmission of the virus.
“Only essential services including grocery shops, pharmacies, general stores, and emergency services will remain operational during this lockdown,” the official statement mentioned.
Officials have warned that legal action will be pursued against anyone who contravenes the lockdown measures.
Residents are encouraged to stay indoors, support health teams, and strictly follow health safety protocols.
The Provincial Health Department has ramped up surveillance efforts, especially at entry points and healthcare facilities, to swiftly identify and isolate suspected cases.
Recently, a 31-year-old male from Khyber district tested positive after being screened while preparing to travel to Dubai at Bacha Khan International Airport. Following this confirmation, the KP Health Department instructed the district health officer of Khyber to commence immediate surveillance and contact tracing.
Authorities also revisited a previous case from March involving a woman in Dogra, Khyber district, initially thought to represent the province's first local transmission. It was later revealed that she contracted the virus from her husband, who had recently come back from abroad and subsequently tested positive.
Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, manifests flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions. While it generally presents mild symptoms, it can be fatal, particularly for children, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those living with HIV.
Point of View
Such measures require community cooperation and adherence to guidelines. The focus remains on protecting vulnerable populations while ensuring essential services continue.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mpox?
Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, leads to flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions. It is generally mild but can be serious for certain populations.
How long will the smart lockdown last?
The smart lockdown in Bajaur district is set to last for 12 days.
What services are allowed during the lockdown?
Only essential services such as grocery shops, pharmacies, and emergency services are permitted to operate during the lockdown.
What measures are being taken to control the outbreak?
Authorities are sealing entry and exit points and have intensified surveillance to promptly detect and isolate suspected cases.
What should residents do during the lockdown?
Residents are advised to stay indoors, cooperate with health teams, and follow health safety guidelines.
