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Nine die of mpox in Sindh as Punjab reports 26 confirmed cases in 2026

April 15, 2026
Test tubes labelled Monkeypox virus positive and negative are seen in this illustration taken May 23, 2022. — Reuters
Test tubes labelled "Monkeypox virus positive and negative" are seen in this illustration taken May 23, 2022. — Reuters

Mpox has claimed nine lives in Sindh, where 25 cases have been confirmed out of 122 suspected infections, while Punjab has reported 26 confirmed cases so far this year with no fatalities, according to official data released on April 14, 2026.

Health authorities say the deaths in Sindh underscore the severity of the outbreak and the urgent need for strengthened surveillance and response, as isolated cases continue to surface in other parts of the country, including Lahore.

According to the Sindh Health Department, two new mpox cases were reported during the past 24 hours, including one each from Karachi and Khairpur, indicating ongoing transmission and a potential risk of further spread.

Official data shows that Khairpur remains the worst-affected district, accounting for 18 confirmed cases. Sukkur has reported three infections, while Karachi has recorded four cases, highlighting the geographical spread of the disease across multiple districts.

A senior official of the Sindh Health Department confirmed the figures, stating that authorities were closely monitoring the situation. “A total of 122 suspected cases have been reported, of which 25 have been laboratory-confirmed. Unfortunately, nine deaths have occurred. All necessary measures are being taken to contain the outbreak and ensure timely treatment of patients,” the official said.

In response to the evolving situation, the Sindh government has established isolation wards in district headquarters and major hospitals and activated Disease Surveillance and Response Units across the province. Authorities have also strengthened contact tracing, sample transportation, and infection prevention and control measures to curb further transmission.

On the other hand, Punjab has also reported mpox cases, though no deaths have occurred so far. According to official data from Mayo Hospital Lahore, a major referral centre for infectious diseases, 26 confirmed mpox cases have been recorded in 2026.

The hospital’s daily situation report indicates that four patients were admitted as of April 13, including three confirmed and one suspected case. Of these, two patients were admitted to the Emergency Department on the fifth floor, one to the paediatric unit, and one to the dermatology ward. No discharges, abscondments, or fatalities were reported during the period.

An official of the Punjab Health Department said the situation in the province remained under control. “Punjab has reported 26 confirmed mpox cases in 2026 with no deaths so far. Surveillance systems have been strengthened, and hospitals have been directed to ensure preparedness and strict infection control protocols,” the official said.

The data further shows that Mayo Hospital recorded 21 confirmed cases in 2025, with three deaths, highlighting the importance of sustained vigilance and early detection.

Public health experts warn that emerging infectious diseases such as mpox require robust surveillance, timely diagnosis, and rapid containment measures. They emphasize that early detection, transparent reporting, and coordinated public health responses are essential to preventing further loss of life.

Health authorities have urged citizens to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear and advised healthcare workers to strictly follow infection prevention protocols to curb the spread of the virus.