Call for adopting protective measures against Monkeypox

In the wake of the possible spread of Monkeypox, a viral disease with symptoms similar to smallpox, the district health authority has advised the residents to remain vigilant and adopt precautionary measures.

The District Health Officer for Communicable Diseases Dr Waqar Ahmed said the incubation period for Monkeypox was typically 5 to 21 days, with an average of 12 days. During this time, he added that an infected person may not show symptoms but can still spread the virus to others.

"The infectious period for Monkeypox begins with the onset of symptoms and can last for up to four weeks," he explained.

Dr Waqar said that Monkeypox was primarily spread through close contact with infected animals, such as handling or consuming meat from infected animals, or through close contact with infected people, such as through respiratory droplets or contact with infected bodily fluids or skin lesions.

The rate of transmission can vary depending on several factors, such as the level of exposure, the severity of the disease, and the effectiveness of infection control measures, he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 2^nd, 2023.