Public Urged to Stay Alert as Zika and Mpox Cases Climb

News Desk

Islamabad: Renowned Infectious Disease Specialist Dr Syed Faisal Mahmood on Friday issued a cautionary message, urging the public to stay vigilant and adopt necessary precautions against the spread of vector-borne diseases such as Zika, dengue, and Mpox.

Speaking to PTV News, Dr Mahmood highlighted the importance of monitoring potential outbreaks and implementing preventive measures to reduce the risk of transmission.

He warned that Mpox, a rare yet highly infectious disease, has been reported in several countries, raising concerns about its possible spread.

While emphasising that the overall risk is currently low, Dr Mahmood stressed the importance of precautions, particularly for those travelling to or returning from affected areas.

He advised individuals to practice good hygiene, avoid close contact with infected persons, and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms arise.

Discussing the symptoms of Mpox, Dr Mahmood noted that fever, headache, muscle aches, and the appearance of a distinct rash or blisters are key indicators of the disease.

He urged anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek prompt medical attention, emphasising that early detection and treatment are vital for preventing complications and containing outbreaks.

Dr Mahmood further underscored the need for public awareness and education, asserting that ‘knowledge is power’ in the fight against infectious diseases. He stated that understanding the risks and adopting simple preventive measures can help individuals protect themselves and their families from Mpox and other vector-borne illnesses.

In response to a query regarding Zika, Dr Mahmood highlighted the severe risks associated with Zika virus infection during pregnancy, warning of its potentially devastating effects on unborn babies.

Zika has been linked to serious birth defects, including microcephaly, a condition where babies are born with abnormally small heads and brains, resulting in lifelong developmental and intellectual disabilities.

Dr Mahmood advised pregnant women or those planning to conceive to exercise extreme caution, particularly by avoiding travel to Zika-affected regions, using insect repellents, and wearing protective clothing to prevent mosquito bites.

He stressed that preventing Zika infection during pregnancy is critical for safeguarding the health of both mothers and their babies.

Addressing another question, Dr Mahmood explained that although Zika virus infection typically poses a low risk of severe illness, taking precautions remains essential to preventing transmission and minimising potential complications.

Pregnant women, in particular, should take extra care to avoid mosquito bites and reduce the risk of birth defects, he added.