PESHAWAR (Web Desk) – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has reported four new confirmed cases of mpox within the past 72 hours, bringing the province’s total number of infections to 18 in 2026, according to provincial health department figures.
The latest cases have renewed concerns among health officials about the possibility of local transmission, as authorities strengthen surveillance, monitor patients and consider measures to prevent further infections.
According to a report published by Dawn on October 25, the four latest patients included one woman and three men. The patients reportedly had no history of international travel, prompting health experts to call for greater vigilance and further investigation into the source of infection.
The patients were identified after samples from suspected cases were tested at the Public Health Reference Laboratory at Khyber Medical University. The samples had been referred by Khyber Teaching Hospital, and laboratory results confirmed the infections.
Two of the patients belonged to Nowshera, while the other two were from Peshawar and Mardan, according to the report. The patients were advised to remain in isolation at home.
Active cases and recoveries
The provincial health department’s latest figures show that 18 confirmed infections have been recorded in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa so far this year.
Of the total, 13 patients have recovered, while one death has been reported. Four patients remain among the active cases, according to the figures.
No additional fatalities were reported during the 24 hours covered by the latest health department update.
Officials have continued monitoring the situation as health authorities seek to identify suspected infections and limit the possibility of further spread. The first mpox case recorded in the province this year was reported on January 9.
Although most patients have recovered, the latest infections have drawn attention to the need for early diagnosis, appropriate isolation and effective monitoring of people who may have been exposed to the virus.
Contact tracing and testing planned
Health officials have planned contact tracing and testing of close relatives of the newly infected patients to determine whether additional infections have occurred.
The provincial health department has also issued guidance to hospitals, particularly in affected districts, instructing medical facilities to identify suspected cases and arrange laboratory testing for confirmation.
According to health experts quoted by Dawn, the absence of international travel histories among the latest patients has raised concerns that infections may be occurring within local communities. However, further investigation is needed to establish the exact sources and transmission links.
Authorities are being urged to maintain surveillance and ensure that suspected patients are identified promptly. Hospitals have an important role in recognising possible cases, collecting samples and taking appropriate infection-control measures.
Public awareness and precautions
Mpox is a viral disease that can cause fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue and skin lesions or rashes. Symptoms may vary, and suspected cases require medical assessment and laboratory confirmation.
The virus can spread through close contact with an infected person, contact with infectious skin lesions or bodily fluids, and contaminated materials such as bedding.
Health experts advise people to avoid direct contact with the skin lesions or personal belongings of someone suspected of having the infection. People who develop a concerning rash or other compatible symptoms should seek medical advice and follow instructions from healthcare professionals.
Maintaining personal hygiene, avoiding the sharing of potentially contaminated personal items and following medical guidance can help reduce the risk of transmission.
The latest increase highlights the importance of coordinated efforts between health facilities, surveillance teams and local communities. Continued monitoring and timely testing will be important in identifying additional cases and helping authorities respond to the evolving situation.
