Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has issued directives to step up efforts to stem the spread of the monkeypox virus, according to a PMO press release.

Addressing a meeting on measures to fend off mpox at PM House, he said the World Health Organization declared monkeypox as a public health emergency, after which there is a need for strict monitoring of this disease in Pakistan.

The PM directed an effective monkeypox screening system at the country's airports, seaports and borders.

He also directed the Prime Minister's Border Health Services to monitor the situation and conduct strict surveillance.

The prime minister directed the National Command and Operations Centre to closely monitor the situation and conduct an early review.

He asked the authorities concerned to ensure the supply of all necessary equipment and kits for monkeypox testing.

He also directed a close coordination between the centre, provinces and AJK to stem monkeypox.

He passed instructions to start an effective and comprehensive awareness campaign and said he would hold a weekly briefing about the matter.

The meeting was informed that the monkeypox virus was confirmed in a resident of Mardan. The victim was residing abroad for employment and recently came to Pakistan. The affected person has been kept in quarantine and his condition is out of danger.

The meeting was informed that the NCOC issued instructions to cope with challenges after the World Health Organization declared a public health emergency on August 14.

The meeting was told that the federal and provincial governments are starting an awareness campaign and the Civil Aviation Authority will monitor flights from abroad. It was informed that the provincial governments, ICT Admin and AJK authorities have allocated isolation wards and beds in major hospitals.