Mpox Case Confirmed in Talisay City, Cebu; Nearby Cities Alert

Health authorities in Talisay City, Cebu, have confirmed a case of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox), raising concerns among residents and prompting nearby cities to heighten surveillance. The case marks another instance of the viral disease in the Philippines, following previous outbreaks in other regions. Local officials are urging the public to stay informed and take preventive measures to curb further transmission.

What is Mpox?

Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the mpox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus, which also includes the now-eradicated smallpox virus. While mpox is generally less severe than smallpox, it can still cause painful symptoms and, in rare cases, lead to serious complications.

Symptoms of Mpox

Common symptoms of mpox include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Rash (often starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body)

The rash progresses through stages, forming scabs that eventually fall off. Symptoms typically last between 2 to 4 weeks, and most people recover without treatment. However, severe cases may require medical intervention.

Details of the Talisay City Case

The confirmed case in Talisay City involves a male patient in his 30s who recently traveled to an area with known mpox transmission. Health officials are conducting contact tracing to identify and monitor individuals who may have been exposed. The patient is currently isolated and receiving medical care.

Response from Local Health Authorities

The Talisay City Health Office has issued the following measures:

• Enhanced surveillance in healthcare facilities
• Public awareness campaigns on prevention and symptoms
• Coordination with neighboring cities to monitor potential spread

Nearby cities, including Cebu City, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu, have also been placed on alert, with health workers advised to watch for possible cases.

How Does Mpox Spread?

Mpox primarily spreads through:

• Close physical contact with an infected person (e.g., skin-to-skin contact, hugging, kissing)
• Contact with contaminated objects (e.g., bedding, clothing, towels)
• Respiratory droplets from prolonged face-to-face interaction

Unlike COVID-19, mpox is not considered highly contagious through casual contact, but close interactions increase the risk of transmission.

Preventive Measures Against Mpox

To reduce the risk of infection, health experts recommend:

• Avoiding close contact with individuals showing symptoms
• Practicing good hygiene (frequent handwashing, using alcohol-based sanitizers)
• Not sharing personal items like towels or utensils
• Wearing masks in crowded settings if respiratory symptoms are present

Vaccination and Treatment

While there is no specific treatment for mpox, antiviral medications used for smallpox may be effective. The JYNNEOS vaccine has also been approved for mpox prevention, though availability in the Philippines remains limited. Health authorities are assessing the need for targeted vaccination campaigns.

Public Reaction and Misinformation

The confirmation of the mpox case has sparked concern among residents, with some fearing a repeat of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, health officials emphasize that mpox is not as easily transmitted as COVID-19 and has a lower fatality rate.

Misinformation is also circulating on social media, with false claims about transmission and severity. The Department of Health (DOH) urges the public to rely only on verified sources for updates.

What Should You Do If You Experience Symptoms?

If you or someone you know develops symptoms of mpox:

• Seek medical attention immediately—do not self-diagnose
• Isolate to prevent potential spread
• Inform close contacts so they can monitor their health

Early detection and isolation are key to controlling outbreaks.

Conclusion

The confirmed mpox case in Talisay City serves as a reminder to stay vigilant about infectious diseases. While the risk of widespread transmission remains low, preventive measures and public cooperation are essential in keeping the community safe. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Stay informed, practice good hygiene, and support efforts to prevent further cases in Cebu and beyond.