DOH-7 boosts mpox surveillance

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Health – Central Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH CV CHD) has heightened its surveillance efforts and is urging the public to remain proactive in observing recommended health measures.

DOH-7 Regional Director Dr. Joshua G. Brillantes assured the public that the region’s health system is prepared, with a focus on early detection and clear communication.

“We want to reassure the people of Central Visayas that the health system is on alert and prepared to respond. Our priority is early detection, clear communication, and protection of every individual, especially those who may be more vulnerable,” said Brillantes in a statement.

He emphasized compassion over fear and warned against misinformation and discrimination.

“We ask everyone to be kind and understanding. Let us avoid fear and discrimination, as Mpox can affect anyone, and what we need most right now is compassion, accurate information, and community cooperation,” Brillantes added.

The department stressed that consistent implementation of hygiene practices, particularly in public spaces, remains essential.

“We reassure the community that we are committed to safeguarding public health and are closely monitoring for any potential developments,” the health department added.

Mpox is a contagious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It is primarily transmitted through close, intimate contact with an infected person—such as talking, breathing in close proximity, kissing, touching, hugging, or sexual activity. It may also spread through contact with contaminated materials like bedding, clothing, or linens.

Common symptoms include a skin rash or mucosal lesions lasting two to four weeks, often accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.

To help prevent infection, the health department advised frequent handwashing with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer, proper respiratory etiquette (covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing), ensuring good ventilation in indoor spaces, and avoiding close contact with individuals showing symptoms of Mpox.

“We emphasize that only accurate and verified health information should be followed, as misinformation can undermine public safety,” the agency said.

DEPED-7 ready to shift to modular learning

Meanwhile, the Department of Education in Central Visayas (DepEd-7) assured the public that students who test positive for Mpox will not fall behind in their studies. The agency is prepared to shift affected learners to modular learning to ensure both safety and academic continuity.

DepEd-7 Regional Director Dr. Salustiano Jimenez said during a media forum on Tuesday, June 3, that the agency is ready to implement learning alternatives—including modular and blended learning—should Mpox cases emerge in schools.

“We are already informing our schools and division superintendents about protocols to ensure the student’s safety when they return. We are prepared,” Jimenez said in a mix of English and Cebuano.

He urged parents to play an active role in monitoring their children’s health and to report any symptoms immediately to school officials.

“Whenever naa silay gibati, automatic nga moreport dayon sa school. The parents themselves should be aware ani,” he added.

Jimenez said the department is awaiting specific guidelines from the DOH on managing Mpox cases in schools. Once finalized, DepEd will issue its own guidance for immediate implementation.

“We are coordinating with the DOH. Kung unsay ilang advice, among e-put into action,” he emphasized.

He added that lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic have equipped the education sector to respond effectively to health-related disruptions.

“With our experience during the pandemic, automatic dayon ta mo-shift to blended, online or modular learning. Ready na ang materials if ever naay mahitabo,” he said.

In fact, Jimenez’s office has already instructed schools to pre-distribute learning modules to students who may need to stay home, so parents will not have to return to school to collect them in the event of sudden illness or exposure.

He stressed that this proactive measure ensures continuous learning, even when students cannot attend classes in person.

The education department also reiterated its readiness to respond to other health threats, natural disasters, or any disruptions that could affect face-to-face classes.

So far, there are no confirmed Mpox cases among students in Central Visayas. However, DepEd is not taking any chances with the scheduled opening of classes for School Year 2025–2026 on June 16.

Jimenez further assured the public that while safety remains the top priority, learning must continue despite health emergencies. FPL (CEBU NEWS)