The Medical Superintendent of Mayo Hospital Lahore, Dr. Abdul Madbar, has reported a noticeable increase in monkeypox cases this year, with a total of 32 confirmed infections recorded so far in the region.
According to Dr. Madbar, six patients diagnosed with monkeypox are currently under treatment at Mayo Hospital. He noted that most cases are emerging from Lahore and nearby surrounding areas, indicating local transmission rather than international travel-related spread.
He further clarified that patients of all age groups have been affected this year. Importantly, none of the confirmed patients have a history of foreign travel, suggesting that the virus is circulating within local communities.
Dr. Madbar described the rising number of cases as concerning and urged the public to remain alert. He advised individuals to seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms such as red skin lesions, persistent itching, or high fever.
He also highlighted that there is currently no specific antiviral treatment for monkeypox, and most patients recover naturally within approximately 14 days with supportive care and monitoring.
Providing a comparison with previous data, Dr. Madbar said that 21 monkeypox cases were reported last year, out of which three proved fatal. However, he confirmed that no deaths have been recorded so far this year, despite the increase in infections.
