Philippines: 1st mpox case reported in Zamboanga Sibugay, Rise reported in Mindanao
The The Provincial Health Office (PHO) of Zamboanga Sibugay confirms the first positive case of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) in the province. The patient, a three year old resident of Tungawan municipality, is currently in recovery after receiving appropriate medical care at Dr. George T. Hofer Medical Center.
PHO encourages healthcare providers and the public to remain vigilant for other diseases that may mimic monkeypox, such as chickenpox, measles, herpes simplex virus, and other febrile rash illnesses, especially in the differential diagnosis of suspected cases. All health facilities have activated disease surveillance systems with the installation of fast lanes. Early detection and accurate diagnosis are key to effective management and containment.
Elsewhere in Mindanao, three residents have tested positive for monkeypox or mpox in Sultan Kudarat province, Governor Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu confirmed Friday.
"They are now in stable condition,” Mangudadatu said, citing reports from local health workers.
Two cases were recorded in Tacurong City and one in Bagumbayan town, all in stable condition under home isolation.
The Bangsamoro health ministry confirmed two mpox (monkeypox) cases in Maguindanao del Norte this week while monitoring six other potential infections, officials said Wednesday.
South Cotabato in the Soccsksargen region, including in its capital, Koronadal City has logged the most cases so far, with 10 confirmed infections as of May 22.
The viral disease spreads through close contact with an infected person or contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that progresses through several stages.
Mpox can cause serious complications in young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, and its contagious nature makes early detection and isolation vital to preventing outbreaks.
The Department of Health (DOH) and the Food and Drug Administration have yet to approve any Mpox vaccines for public use in the country.
