KABUL (SW) – The International Islamic University of Afghanistan organized a one-day seminar on Tuesday, aimed at increasing public awareness about Monkeypox (Mpox) and its prevention methods.
Rafiullah Ata, the university’s scientific deputy, emphasized the importance of educating citizens about Mpox and effective strategies for combating the disease. He said, “The goal of this program is to inform people about monkeypox so they can be prepared; this disease is not as dangerous as COVID-19.”
University professors highlighted that monkeypox is a contagious disease that spreads through direct contact between individuals. They said that key symptoms include severe pain, joint discomfort, and shortness of breath.
Habib Al-Rahman Masoud, head of the university’s medical faculty, explained, “Monkeypox is a viral disease that spreads from person to person. It initially appeared in animals before being transmitted to humans.”
Ghulam Rahim Awab, a professor at the International Islamic University of Afghanistan, urged citizens to follow health recommendations to prevent the disease. He advised, “Boosting the immune system, eating healthy foods, maintaining cleanliness, getting vaccinated, avoiding contact with infected individuals, and washing hands with soap are essential preventive measures.”
In parallel, Sharafat Zaman Amarkhil, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Health, said that the ministry is working to prevent monkeypox in Afghanistan. He added, “We will focus on capacity building and awareness programs, activate screening at border points, and our effort is to prevent the spread of this disease in our zero-point areas.”
Monkeypox cases have been reported in Pakistan, Sweden, and Africa.
The World Health Organization has declared the monkeypox outbreak a public health emergency and noted that a new strain of the virus is spreading.
