An Insight into Monkeypox: How Should Pakistan Respond?

Abstract

Monkeypox a zoonotic disease has been on the rise since 1970, when it was first reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Similar to smallpox, this virus had been an endemic for Africa for years. However, its first outbreak happened in 2003 when more than 70 cases were reported in the United States of America. Following that in 2022 this virus has spread to 68rd new countries throughout the world and has been declared as a Global Health Emergency by WHO on 23 of July 2022. Monkeypox is transmitted by close interactions, exchange of bodily fluids and respiratory droplets. WHO declared that more than 90% of cases have been found among men who were involved in Men-to-Men sexual intercourse. This article covers all aspects of this virus after thoroughly researching several peer-reviewed articles, reports and taking findings from the WHO. Though monkeypox is spreading quite fast its fatality rate is between 3-6% resulting in few deaths. With focus on resuming the Vaccinia Vaccine drive and developing an anti-viral agent Tecovirimat SIGA, the chances of combating this virus seem high, if all countries collaborate with WHO.