Mpox case reported in Mandaluyong, but DOH assures no outbreak yet

A local case of monkeypox has been reported in Mandaluyong City on June 29, but the Department of Health assured that an outbreak has not happened yet.

In a statement by the city's epidemiology and surveillance unit (CESU), they detailed that they are currently managing a confirmed case of the disease in the area.

They underscored that they had "immediately initiated the appropriate public health response, including case investigation, contact tracing, risk assessment, and monitoring of identified close contacts, in accordance with established health protocols."

They are also closely coordinating with the City Health Office, DOH Regional Epidemiology and Health Statistics Section, and other concerned partners.

"The situation is being actively managed, and the public is encouraged to remain informed through official government channels," the surveillance unit stated.

They advised citizens to wash hands regularly with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, as well as to avoid close skin-to-skin contact with individuals who have unexplained rashes or skin lesions.

It's also important to cover coughs and sneezes properly and maintain good personal hygiene. If you develop a fever, swollen lymph nodes, or unexplained rashes or skin lesions, seek medical consultation immediately.

"CESU likewise reminds everyone to respect the privacy of the individual involved and to refrain from sharing unverified information that may cause confusion within the community," the agency said.

"The CESU remains committed to protecting public health through continuous disease surveillance, timely response, and transparent communication. Updates will be provided through official channels as necessary. Stay informed. Stay vigilant. Together, we can keep our community safe," they ended.

Per One PH, the DOH clarified that despite the presence of a confirmed case, there is no outbreak of the virus nationwide.

Only a total of 44 cases have been recorded since Jan. 4 up to June 13 this year. This is significantly less than the 205 cases reported in the previous year.

What is mpox and how is it transmitted?

Mpox is not a new disease, as it has been in existence for several decades now, with its first identification as a distinct illness being in 1958.

Symptoms start with having a fever, whether low-grade or moderate, as well as muscle pains and body aches. The most tell-tale sign, however, is the appearance of the skin rash, which usually appears one to three days after the other symptoms start.

Unlike COVID-19, the virus that has plagued the world in 2020 because of its quick transmission in crowded areas through the air, Mpox can only be transmitted through physical contact with an infectious person or animal, or through contaminated materials.

It may also be transmitted through respiratory droplets during prolonged, close face-to-face interaction with an infected individual.

Children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised should especially take precautions, as their immunity is not as strong as that of a healthy adult, making them more prone to the severe impacts of mpox. 

While there is no absolute treatment for Mpox, most cases go away on their own within a few weeks with supportive care.