The Department of Health (DOH) confirmed a new case of mpox in the Philippines, raising the national tally to 10. The patient, a 33-year-old Filipino male, reportedly had no recent travel history abroad.
This case marks the first since December 2023. All previously identified individuals have recovered.
The latest patient reported experiencing fever over a week ago, followed by a distinct rash on his face, back, neck, torso, groin, palms, and soles. He sought treatment at a government hospital where a PCR test confirmed the presence of monkeypox viral DNA.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, typically manifests as a skin rash or mucosal lesions lasting 2-4 weeks. These rashes are often accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.
Transmission of the virus primarily occurs through close, intimate contact with an infected person or contaminated materials like clothing or utensils. Contact with infected animals is also a risk factor.
DOH emphasized mpox is preventable. Infection can be lessened by maintaining good hand hygiene with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizers.
Filipinos are advised to remain vigilant and practice preventive measures.
