Mpox case confirmed in Mandaluyong; contact tracing underway

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June 29, 2026 | 5:31pm

MANILA, Philippines — Mandaluyong City's epidemiology and surveillance unit confirmed on Monday afternoon, June 29, that it is handling a local case of mpox, a contagious disease formerly known as monkeypox.

In a public advisory, the office said it had coordinated with concerned local and regional health offices to conduct the necessary health protocols, including case investigation, contact tracing, risk assessment and monitoring of close contacts.

"The situation is being actively managed, and the public is encouraged to remain informed through official government channels," the advisory said.

The office also reminded the public to refrain from sharing unverified information and to respect the privacy of the individual involved.

No further details were provided about the case.

The confirmation came after a supposed copy of a circular from the property management office of an unnamed condominium informing residents of a confirmed mpox case circulated online earlier Monday.

What is mpox?

Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It can spread between people or from animals to humans.

The disease can be transmitted through close contact with an infected person or through items and surfaces touched by a person with mpox.

Mpox can cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, backache, muscle aches and fatigue. It can also cause rashes that may take weeks to clear.

According to the World Health Organization, people who have close contact with a person with mpox are at risk.

"In most cases, the symptoms of mpox go away on their own within a few weeks with supportive care, such as medication for pain or fever. However, in some people, the illness can be severe or lead to complications and even death," WHO said.

WHO noted, however, that deaths from mpox are rare.

"According to available data, between 0.1% and 10% of people with mpox have died. It is important to note that death rates in different settings may differ due to several factors," the organization said.

Preventive measures

The local government unit of Mandaluyong also reminded the public about measures they can do to protect themselves from mpox.

Among these are:

• Proper washing of hands regularly with soap and water or use of alcohol-based sanitizer
• Avoiding skin-to-skin contact with individuals who have unexplained rashes
• Properly covering the face when coughing or sneezing
• Maintaining personal hygiene
• Seeking immediate medical help in case of fever, swollen lymph nodes, or unexplained regions.