An Augmented Review on Monkeypox (An Emerging Public Health Threat) in Pakistan

Abstract

Monkeypox (MPX) is a zoonotic viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, closely related to the variola virus (smallpox). First identified in monkeys in 1958 and humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, it is now endemic in parts of West and Central Africa, with rising cases in non-endemic regions. Symptoms resemble smallpox but are less severe. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected animals, humans, respiratory droplets, bodily fluids, or lesion material. The 2022-2023 outbreak spread globally, with tens of
thousands of cases linked to the West African variant reported in over 110 countries. Severe cases, mainly in immunocompromised individuals, emphasize the need for vaccination and antiviral therapies. In Pakistan, although no major outbreaks have occurred, suspected cases have prompted health authorities to enhance surveillance and diagnostic capacity. Public awareness, early detection, vaccination, and international collaboration remain critical to prevent outbreaks and control MPX both locally and globally.