DOH: Mpox cases in PH down 79% compared to 2025

The cases of monkeypox (mpox) in the country are 79% lower in 2026 compared to the previous year, the Department of Health (DOH) said Monday amid reports of local detections.

In a statement, DOH spokesperson Undersecretary Albert Domingo said there are 44 mpox cases recorded from January 4 to June 13, 2026.

The figure is 79% lower than 205 cases logged in the same period in 2025.

“While the disease has always been around, there is no outbreak or even an increase in numbers,” Domingo said.

What is Mpox? Everything you need to know about the virus that is now global concern

“The DOH does not discuss individual case circumstances to avoid stigma and to comply with data privacy laws, especially in the context of a markedly lower case count,” he added.

Domingo further said local government units may issue their own advisories with regards to the public health in their area.

DOH made the statement following reported cases detected in a condominium in Mandaluyong City.

Mpox is a zoonotic disease (transmitted to humans from animals) that transmits through close physical contact and typically causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions, and is usually mild but can also lead to death.

According to the Department of Health (DOH), human-to-human mpox transmission is possible through direct contact with skin or mucosal lesions like talking or breathing, kissing, touching, hugging or sexual intercourse and also through respiratory secretions. —RF, GMA News