Region II’s first case of mpox, formerly called monkeypox, does not have a travel history, said the Department of Health (DOH).
According to the Department of Health-Cagayan Valley Center for Health Development (DOH-CVCHD) Regional Director Dr. Amelita Pangilinan, the patient has recorded travels neither abroad nor anyplace else within the country, which means they were infected within their locality.
The case was brought to the health officials’ attention on September 7, which prompted contact tracing to identify others who may have been exposed to the pox.
“We are working closely with healthcare providers and local government units to contain the virus and protect the public’s health,” Dr. Pangilinan told the media.
The patient is currently in isolation and receiving medical attention.
The agency urges the public to remain vigilant, advising continued observance of health protocols.
Mpox is a virus manifesting in two to four-week-long skin rashes or mucosal lesions, typically accompanied by fever, headaches, muscle aches, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.
The DOH has so far recorded 23 cases since July 2022, with 14 of them active.
