Mpox threat: Experts call for knowledge-based approach to combat virus
IV Report
KARACHI: Amidst reports of Pakistanis returning from abroad with Mpox
virus, experts at a symposium stressed the importance of mass awareness to
prevent its spread.
"The more you educate the masses about viral diseases, the better
equipped they'll be to tackle challenges," said speakers at the
"Mpox: Evolution and Clinical Manifestation" symposium, jointly
organised by the University of Karachi's Department of Microbiology and the
Association of Microbial Sciences on September 11.
Dow University of Health Sciences Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Saeed
Quraishy emphasised knowledge-based progress as the key to overcoming health
sector challenges. He urged students to utilise scientific symposia for mass
awareness.
Prof Quraishy noted the first Mpox case was reported 50 years ago, but
recent surges indicate emerging viral disease threats.
Dow College of Biotechnology Principal Prof Dr Mushtaq Hussain explained
virus evolution, highlighting Mpox's high mutation and mortality rates.He expressed the view that the recent cases of the lumpy pox virus
were also due to the mutation in the pox virus which is a relevant virus to the
Mpox virus. “The updated viral genome database presents the evolution of clade
I virus, which is more virulent and prone to mutations.”
Making observation that there shouldn’t be any havoc or rumors in this regard, she told the audience that Mpox is only transmitted from humans, either through contact or fomites, therefore, the patients of skin diseases should be diagnosed based on their past exposure.
Dr Najia Ghanchi (Aga Khan University) emphasised diagnosis importance, advocating continuous monitoring for early warnings.
Other speakers included KU Dean Prof Dr Haris Shoaib, AMMS President Prof Muhammad Suhail, and KU Microbiology Department Chairperson Prof Dr Abdul Wahab.
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