Manila, Philippines – The Philippines has confirmed its first case of mpox this year, the Department of Health (DOH) announced on Monday. A 33-year-old Filipino male, with no recent travel history, has tested positive for the virus.
Health officials are currently conducting tests to determine the specific strain of the virus. The DOH spokesperson, Albert Domingo, said the results are pending.
The development comes amid a global resurgence of mpox, with the World Health Organization declaring it a global public health emergency last week. A new, more easily transmissible variant has sparked concerns worldwide.
The Philippines initially reported a case of mpox in July 2022 and has since recorded a total of ten confirmed cases. The latest patient exhibited symptoms including fever and a distinctive rash on multiple parts of the body.
Mpox is a viral infection characterized by flu-like symptoms and a painful rash. While often mild, the disease can be fatal, especially for children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.
The DOH has urged the public to practice good hygiene, avoid close contact with individuals exhibiting symptoms, and seek medical attention immediately if experiencing related symptoms.
