Zamboanga Sibugay records 3-year-old as first mpox case

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Following the mpox confirmation, the patient and her immediate family are now under home quarantine

ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY, Philippines – Health officials in Zamboanga Sibugay confirmed the province’s first case of mpox: a 3-year-old girl from the municipality of Tungawan.

The Provincial Health Office (PHO) said the child is now recovering after receiving medical attention at the Dr. George T. Hofer Medical Center (DGTHMC) in Ipil.

She was initially given medical attention on May 5 at the Tungawan Rural Health Office, where samples were collected and sent to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine in Muntinlupa City for confirmation.

Following the mpox confirmation, the patient and her immediate family were placed under home quarantine. Contact tracing efforts began immediately to identify and monitor their close contacts.

According to local health officials, all identified contacts are now under observation, in line with national health protocols.

Mpox is a viral illness that spreads through prolonged, close physical contact. It is usually self-limiting, with symptoms including fever, skin rashes, and swollen lymph nodes. 

The PHO urged the public to adhere to preventive health measures similar to those implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, including wearing well-fitted masks, regular handwashing, physical distancing, and avoiding contact with symptomatic individuals.

The PHO also reminded healthcare workers and the public to remain alert for other diseases that mimic mpox, such as chickenpox, herpes, and other febrile rash illnesses. Diagnostic protocols have been activated in health facilities across the province.

Governor Ann Hofer said that the provincial government, in coordination with the Department of Health and the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, is closely monitoring the situation. – Rappler.com