DOH denies monkeypox fatality in Negros Oriental

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) has denied reports that a man in Negros Oriental died due to monkeypox.

“No one in the country died from monkeypox,” Health Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said yesterday.

Citing latest DOH data, Domingo said no one among those tested for monkeypox was found positive for the virus.

Domingo’s clarification came in the wake of reports that the DOH office in Central Visayas was investigating the death of a 27-year-old man in Negros Oriental. 

The patient was suspected to be suffering from monkeypox before he died on June 2.

Monkeypox virus is transmitted through physical contact with an infected person or contaminated materials.

Domingo said the symptoms of the disease are similar to chickenpox, shingles and herpes.

These symptoms include skin rashes or mucosal lesions. 

He reminded the public to always wait for an official confirmation from the DOH before believing anything they hear or read as well as refrain from spreading unverified information.