Punjab Forms Working Group to Monitor Mpox Outbreak

The recent development in Punjab, Pakistan, has drawn considerable attention as the provincial government takes decisive action to address a potential health concern. With the formation of a high-profile Technical Working Group (TWG), the government is committed to monitoring the Monkeypox (Mpox) situation across the region. This strategic initiative parallels previous efforts undertaken for other viral diseases such as dengue and Covid-19, which have significantly impacted the province in recent years.

Based in Lahore, the core objective of this 20-member TWG is to ensure the health and safety of Punjab’s residents amid growing concerns surrounding Mpox. Under the leadership of former provincial health minister Prof Javed Akram, who serves as the chairman, and the Director General Health Punjab as the co-chairman, the group is composed of esteemed health experts and professors from various teaching hospitals.

The group’s formation is part of a proactive strategy by the Punjab government, designed to offer guidelines and remedies aligned with international practices. The Technical Working Group will focus on several critical areas, as outlined in their terms of reference. These include assessing the overall situation of Mpox within the province, providing thorough recommendations for disease prevention, detection, and diagnosis, and consistently updating clinical management and treatment protocols for patients.

This initiative reflects the government’s dedication to replicating the success achieved by previous TWGs in controlling viral outbreaks. By integrating lessons learned from past health crises, the newly established group aims to mitigate the spread of Mpox effectively.

In the backdrop of a province that has battled several epidemics, the TWG’s mission is of paramount importance. The robust framework and expertise brought forth by Prof Javed Akram and the participating health professionals underscore a committed response to public health challenges. As the TWG progresses, its work will undoubtedly continue to deliver valuable insights and strategic recommendations to safeguard public health in Punjab.