Infant Boy Becomes First Mpox Case in Karachi, Sindh Tally Reaches 94

KARACHI: A 40-day-old infant boy has tested positive for mpox, marking the first case of the disease in Karachi as the total number of reported cases in Sindh this year rises to 94. The infant, whose parents reside in Landhi, is currently receiving treatment at the Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital & Research Centre (SIDH&RC).

According to a senior doctor at SIDH&RC, who spoke on condition of anonymity, the baby was initially examined at a local clinic four to five days prior to his hospitalization. After developing a fever and rashes, he was referred to a Korangi hospital before being transferred to SIDH&RC. The doctor noted that while the infant is stable, he remains restless.

This latest case adds to the growing concern over mpox in the region, with 23 patients reported at the hospital this year alone. Tragically, two patients with severe underlying health conditions, including chronic kidney disease and severe lung illness, have died in recent weeks. However, their deaths were officially attributed to their pre-existing conditions rather than mpox.

Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment. The Provincial Disease Surveillance and Response Unit is expected to ramp up efforts to educate the public about mpox and its symptoms, aiming to prevent further spread of the disease.