Authorities in Khyber district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, have implemented a 12-day smart lockdown in the Pump House area of Ghandi, tehsil Jamrud, in response to a surge in mpox (formerly monkeypox) cases. The decision, made by Deputy Commissioner Bilal Shahid Rao, involves sealing off all entry and exit points in the region to prevent the further spread of the virus.
During the lockdown, essential services, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and emergency health services, will remain operational. However, strict action will be taken against anyone found violating the lockdown restrictions.
This action follows the confirmation of a 31-year-old man from the area who tested positive for mpox after being screened at Bacha Khan International Airport while attempting to travel to Dubai. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa health department has already started contact tracing and surveillance to curb any further spread.
Mpox is a viral infection that causes flu-like symptoms and skin rashes. While it typically causes mild illness, it can be more severe for young children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. Since the World Health Organization declared mpox a global health emergency in August 2024, Pakistan has reported 17 cases, mostly linked to travelers returning from the UAE or Saudi Arabia, where the disease is endemic.
Residents in the affected area are being urged to cooperate with health authorities, follow safety guidelines, and limit unnecessary travel to help contain the outbreak.
