Seven newborn deaths in Khairpur not directly caused by Mpox: health ministry

The Sindh Health Department has said that the deaths of seven newborns in Khairpur were not directly caused by Mpox, even though four of the infants had tested positive for the virus, according to an investigation report released on Saturday.

In a statement, the department expressed deep sorrow and condolences to the families of the deceased children.

The report said that all seven newborns were already in a highly vulnerable condition at birth, suffering from complications such as low birth weight, premature delivery and malnutrition. Medical experts concluded that these underlying conditions were the primary cause of death.

The situation came to light on March 14, when unusual skin rashes were reported among infants in Khairpur. Laboratory tests conducted by Dow University of Health Sciences (Ojha Campus) and Aga Khan University confirmed Mpox infection in seven newborns.

As a precautionary measure to contain the spread of the virus, the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Khairpur Medical College Hospital, along with a unit at a private hospital, has been temporarily closed.

On the directives of Sindh Health Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho, a team of medical experts has identified the index case and possible source of transmission. Contact tracing and surveillance have been intensified in Khairpur and surrounding areas.

The department said infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols have been enforced across hospitals, with strict sterilisation of medical equipment underway.

Health authorities maintained that the situation is under control, adding that senior doctors in major hospitals of Sukkur and Khairpur are continuously monitoring developments.

The public has been urged to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest government hospital in case of any unusual symptoms.