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Pakistan has heightened airport surveillance to prevent the potential spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a virus currently causing concern in China.
According to a report by Pak Observer, the National Institute of Health (NIH) confirmed the availability of HMPV test kits and reported that no cases have been detected in Pakistan so far.
Border Health Services personnel are tasked with collecting samples from sick or suspected individuals arriving in the country, which are sent to federal and provincial laboratories for testing.
The NIH plans to discuss the HMPV situation with the National Command and Operation Center (NCOC), potentially convening a meeting on Tuesday to determine further preventive measures.
HMPV, which primarily affects the upper respiratory system, causes flu-like symptoms such as cough, fever, nasal congestion, sore throat, and shortness of breath.
While Chinese authorities have stated that the virus is more prevalent in winter and advised against panic, its spread has raised alarms both locally and internationally.
This development comes nearly five years after the coronavirus epidemic, with Pakistan taking proactive steps to mitigate potential health risks.
