Hospital sealed after mpox detected in newborn

KARACHI:

The Sindh Healthcare Commission (SHCC) has sealed Ibn-e-Hassan Hospital in the Malir 15 area after a 20-day-old newborn from Korangi tested positive for the mpox virus.

According to the SHCC, an investigation was launched following a complaint by the District Health Officer (DHO) Korangi. The inquiry revealed that instruments used at the facility for the newborn's circumcision were contaminated with the mpox virus. Laboratory tests conducted on the infant's samples at Dow University confirmed the infection.

The commission, in coordination with the DHO Korangi and SSP Korangi, took action against the hospital, located within the jurisdiction of Saudabad police station.

Officials said the hospital was operating illegally and that unqualified staff were performing circumcisions on children.

During the operation, hospital staff allegedly resisted the inspection and called in their associates, prompting authorities to seek police assistance. Following the action, the alleged quack and several others fled the scene.

According to the SHCC, the hospital had poor sanitation and inadequate infection prevention and control measures. Officials said the facility's illegal medical practices and lack of proper safety arrangements posed serious risks to patients' health and safety.