Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) issued new airport guidelines to prevent the spread of monkey Pox (mpox). The new directives emphasize coordination between the health department and local authorities, ensuring the availability of ambulances, and establishing isolation facilities for suspected cases. Airports are also required to maintain rigorous cleaning and disinfection protocols for lounges.
Recent reports have confirmed the presence of monkey pox outside Africa, including in Sweden and Pakistan. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared an international health emergency due to the emergence of the new, more transmissible Clade 1b strain.
To enhance safety, the CAA has advised international flight crews to wear masks and gloves, provided hand sanitizers for passengers and staff, and mandated thorough disinfection of restrooms, counters, and luggage from international travelers.
Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad, Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Health, assured the public that only one monkey pox case has been reported in Pakistan. He highlighted the implementation of surveillance and screening measures at all airports and entry points, with designated laboratories across provinces for diagnosis.
In Punjab, Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique confirmed no reported cases of monkey pox, although an alert has been issued. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for stringent vigilance against monkey pox following the WHO’s international health emergency declaration. During a high-level meeting, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of effective screening at all entry points and continuous monitoring by border health services.
