Daijiworld Media Network - Islamabad

Islamabad, Apr 16: Two new mpox cases have been confirmed in Pakistan’s Sindh, raising the total number of infections in the province to 25 in 2026, local media reported on Wednesday.

According to reports cited by the daily Dawn, Sindh has recorded 122 suspected mpox cases so far this year. Of these, 25 have tested positive, while nine deaths have been reported.

Health officials identified Khairpur as the worst-affected area, accounting for 18 confirmed cases. This is followed by Karachi with four cases and Sukkur with three cases.

Authorities have not released detailed information about the newly confirmed infections or updates on an ongoing investigation involving two hospitals in Khairpur, where several newborns reportedly contracted the disease and later died.

Sindh Health Minister Azra Pechuho said emergency containment measures are in place, including the establishment of isolation units in major government hospitals. Medical staff have also been provided with protective equipment such as gloves, masks, and gowns.

She previously noted that although five of the nine affected children died, mpox was not considered the direct cause of death, citing severe underlying weakness and malnutrition.

Mpox, as described by the World Health Organization, is an infectious viral disease that can cause fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle pain. While most patients recover fully, severe cases can occur.

The virus spreads through close contact with infected individuals, contaminated materials, or infected animals, and can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth.