Urgent action sought to prevent monkeypox spread

KABUL (Pajhwok): Participants of a scientific seminar in Kabul urged the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) to implement necessary measures to prevent monkeypox from entering Afghanistan after three positive cases surfaced in neighboring Pakistan.

According to recent updates, Pakistan reported last week that three individuals were diagnosed positive for monkeypox at Peshawar airport, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Joint meeting with UN representatives

In response, Dr. Mohammad Hassan Ghiasi, Deputy Minister of Public Health, held a joint meeting with representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The meeting discussed how to prevent communicable diseases, particularly monkeypox, and the provision of health services across the country.

The discussions emphasized better coordination and prevention strategies, especially in border areas and ports.

The WHO and IOM representatives pledged their support for these efforts.

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and the MoPH are committed to taking necessary steps to control and prevent infectious diseases and are actively working towards these goals.

One-day scientific seminar in Kabul

The Afghan International Islamic University recently hosted a scientific seminar titled "Awareness about Preventive Measures Against Monkeypox." The event featured representatives from the Ministries of Public Health and Higher Education, WHO, and several doctors.

Prof. Dr. Rafiullah Atta, the university's scientific assistant, informed reporters that while no monkeypox cases had been reported in Afghanistan to date, preventive measures were crucial.

He warned of potential severe consequences if preventive actions were not taken. The university's research on the disease is expected to enhance public awareness.

Dr. Habib Rahman Masoud, head of the Faculty of Medicine, said MoPH and the Ministry of Education could jointly address potential solutions to prevent the spread of monkeypox.

He noted the lack of a vaccine for the disease and recommended maintaining personal hygiene and seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms arise.

What is Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a viral disease that can be transmitted through close contact with an infected person or contaminated items. Symptoms include high fever, muscle pain, and skin rashes.

sa/ma