Following the confirmation of the first case of Mpox in Region 1 involving a returning overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in Ilocos Sur, authorities emphasized that there is no cause for panic as Mpox is not airborne.
The Center for Health Development (CHD) Region 1 has confirmed its first and still the only case of Mpox as of May 19, 2025.
The patient is currently isolated and being treated at a local hospital.
CHD Region 1 Spokesperson Dr. Rheuel Bobis said all close contacts are being monitored, though not all require isolation.
“Ang protocol natin, kapag kayo ay naging close contact, kahit hindi ma-isolate basta may close monitoring sa sintomas ninyo,” Bobis said.
Transmission occurs typically through prolonged and intimate physical contact with an infected person.
“Atin pong ipinapanawagan na huwag mag-panic, bagkus mag-ready tayo at alamin ang mga tamang impormasyon tungkol sa monkeypox para mapaghandaan natin at maiwasan ang pagkakaroon nito,” Bobis added.
Residents in Pangasinan have also taken steps to protect their families.
“Syempre talagang inaalagaan namin mga bata at saka hindi namin masyadong pinapalabas para hindi mahawaan ng mga sakit,” said one parent from Mangaldan.
CHD Region 1 reminded the public of Mpox symptoms, which include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Muscle pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Extreme fatigue
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Anal pain
- Painful urination
Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus and usually results in mild illness with rashes. The health department recommends wearing face masks in crowded areas and frequent handwashing. Anyone showing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
