Baguio has recorded its first case of mpox, previously known as monkeypox, the city’s health services office announced on Sunday.
City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes revealed the virus was detected in a 28-year-old male. He was infected by the Clade II mpox virus type, which is less severe than the fatal Clade I.
The patient has completed isolation and was declared cured on January 17, the health office said.
Mpox, a viral, zoonotic disease (passed from certain animals to humans) often manifests in skin rash and mucosal lesions arising with fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, muscle pain, headache, and low energy.
Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong called on the public to practice precautionary health measures, such as wearing face masks and observing physical distancing, as well as maintaining good hygiene and keeping to well-ventilated areas.
The virus may be contracted via direct and indirect contact. Transmission can occur through skin-to-skin contact or contact with lesions, from kissing, hugging, sexual intercourse, and even through respiratory secretions such as phlegm. It can also spread through contaminated beddings, clothes, and so on.
As of December 2024, there have been 52 cases of mpox recorded in the country.
