6 suspected mpox cases in Mandaue

CEBU, Philippines — Health officials in Mandaue City are monitoring six suspected cases of mpox after the patients allegedly showed some signs and symptoms of the viral disease.

Mandaue City Health Officer Dr. Debra Catulong said the six individuals are already isolated and samples have been collected for testing at the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM).

“Gikuhaan na og mga samples ang mga lesion nila and we will send it to RITM para ma check kung mpox ba gyud,” said Catulong.

She said that these six individuals are staying at home for a 21-day home isolation considering that mpox is an infectious disease.

Catulong, however, said they are doing a contact tracing after one of the six patients went to a grocery prior to home isolation.

The city health chief is advising those who manifest mpox symptoms to stay at home and isolate themselves.

“Anha ra gyud sila sa balay aron dili sila makatakod unya sa balay stay away from family members aron dili pud sila matakdan,” Catulong added.

As of August 29, 2024, Dr. Eugenia Mercedes Cañal, regional epidemiologist of the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit of the Department of Health Central Visayas, said there are five suspected mpox cases in the region but no confirmed cases.

Cañal said there have been tests conducted but the results would be out on the second week of September yet.

Since July 2022, there are already 14 confirmed mpox cases in the country with only five active cases waiting for symptoms to be resolved. Mpox is described as an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus.

It is primarily transmitted through direct contact with skin or mucosal lesions of an infected person, which can occur through talking, breathing, kissing, touching, hugging, or sexual intercourse.

Transmission can also occur via respiratory secretions or contact with contaminated objects such as bedding, clothing, or linens.

Common symptoms include fever, rashes, headache, muscle ache, and swelling of lymph nodes.

To prevent infection, the DOH advised individuals to practice frequent handwashing with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer, observe proper respiratory etiquette by covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, ensure good airflow in indoor spaces, and avoid close contact with individuals exhibiting symptoms of mpox. — (FREEMAN)