The Integrated Provincial Health Office of Cotabato Province reported that it received information from the DOH-CHD SOCCSKSARGEN confirming one case of mpox, Clade 2. The infected person is a 30-year-old male from the Municipality of Tulunan in Cotabato Province.
The local government unit (LGU) did not elaborate on the case, aside from reporting that:
- the patient – in isolation – is stable; and
- close contacts of the patient have been identified after contact tracing, and none of them are showing any signs or symptoms of the disease.
The LGU advised the public to “remain calm and vigilant”, though also urging to “keep yourself informed on the preventive procedures for avoiding infectious diseases such as (mpox).”
As FYI: Mpox is a viral illness. A global outbreak of Clade 2 (considered a less severe variant) began in 2022 and continues to this day.
Some of the symptoms to watch out for include: “fever followed by skin rash or mucosal lesions that look like blisters or raised firm lesions one to three days after”; swollen lymph nodes or sore throat; muscle aches and back pain; and headache and low energy.
Mpox is spread through direct contact with skin or mucosal lesions (talking or breathing, kissing, touching, hugging, or sexual intercourse, and/or through respiratory secretions); or indirect contact with contaminated bedding, clothing, or linens or other objects.
There are practical ways to avoid getting infected with mpox, including: covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing; using masks when in crowded places; ensuring good airflow at home, work, et cetera; washing hands frequently with soap and water, or alcohol-based hand sanitizer; and avoiding contact with individuals who have signs and symptoms.
