KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato (PIA) – The Department of Health—Center for Health Development in Soccsksargen issued a significant warning against Mpox, a disease previously known as monkeypox, urging public vigilance.
On Sept. 2, during the “DOH Kapihan with the Media,” Dr. Dyan Zubelle R. Parayao, DOH-CHD’s medical officer, disclosed that two suspected cases had been recorded in the region recently.
According to her, both suspected patients showed symptoms, including rashes, fever, and lesions—all of which are signs of Mpox.
But Parayao said, “The two suspected cases of monkeypox are currently in isolation, and the persons who have been in close contact with the suspected patients were already identified; at the same time, they’re in quarantine.”
She also announced the activation of the agency’s disease surveillance system across all epidemiology and surveillance units in the region.
Infected individuals can spread Mpox by hugging, touching, or sharing surfaces, she said, emphasizing the need to prevent any potential spread of the virus.
“The samples of the suspected cases were sent to RITM (Research Institute for Tropical Medicine) for confirmation, and we are still waiting to see if these cases are confirmed or can be discarded as monkeypox cases,” she added.
The official urged the public not to panic and underscored the need for public vigilance at this time.
Parayao also cited some precautions the public can take to prevent infection, such as wearing face masks, particularly in crowded areas.
She also stressed the importance of reporting symptoms like fever, rashes, or unusual lesions to health authorities immediately to prevent infection and ensure timely medical intervention.
The health department also prodded the public to adhere to the latest health guidelines and protocols and to promptly report any suspected cases to local health officials. (CRM – PIA Region 12)
