The Department of Health (DOH) reported a new case of mpox (formerly monkeypox GX) in the country.
DOH reported receiving details about newly identified mpox cases of the year and bringing the total number of cases nationwide to 10.
The most recent mpox case in the country was recorded in December 2023, and all of the previous patients have recovered.
The new case was a 33 year old Filipino male national with no travel history outside the country, but with close intimate contact three weeks before symptom onset. The symptoms started more than a week ago with fever, followed by distinct rash on the back, face, nape, trunk, as well as groin, palms and soles four days later.
The DOH states that the following are the typical symptoms of mpox virus:
- Skin rash
- Mucosal lesions lasting 2-4 weeks
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Back pain
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
If you have mpox it is advisable that you stay at home and isolate yourself until your mpox rash has healed and formed a new level of skin. Individuals with mpox should frequently clean and disinfect their living spaces to prevent contamination within the household.
If you are unable to fully isolate while sick, take precautions to reduce the risk of spreading mpox to others, such as:
- Wearing a well-fitting mask and cover lesions if other people are around
- Bathrooms and rooms that are shared should be disinfected
- Avoid sharing objects (e.g., washcloths, towels, drinking from the same glass)
- Cover furniture or materials that cannot be washed
The virus can also spread to animals, pets, livestock so it is advisable to stay away from them.
Photo Courtesy: Department of Health