MYTVCEBU RESEARCH: What is Mpox? How to avoid it?

National

AS NEW cases of Mpox surface across the country, public concern is growing, fueled by viral posts, local government alerts, and memories of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Iloilo City confirmed one case and is monitoring four others. Baguio City reported its first case on May 20. In Mindanao, multiple infections have been logged in South Cotabato, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Maguindanao del Norte. A three-year-old girl was among the confirmed patients. The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is also on alert.

In the Visayas, one case has been confirmed in Talisay City, Cebu.

Talisay Mayor Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas confirmed that the patient has died but not due to mpox but because of other medical complications.

These developments, combined with social media chatter and misinformation, have triggered unease reminiscent of the early days of the pandemic.

To separate fact from fear, here’s what the public needs to know about mpox: how it spreads, what its symptoms are, who is most at risk, and how it can be prevented.

What is Mpox

Mpox is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus, the same family of viruses that caused smallpox. While smallpox was eradicated globally in 1980, mpox continues to circulate, primarily in Central and West Africa.

The disease was first discovered in 1958 among monkeys in a research facility, hence the name “monkeypox.” The first human case was documented in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since then, outbreaks have occurred sporadically, with the most significant global surge happening in 2022.

There are two genetic types or clades of mpox:

- Clade I – Causes more severe illness and has higher fatality rates.

- Clade II – Typically results in milder symptoms and was responsible for the 2022 global outbreak.

The Philippines' recent cases have been linked to Clade II.

How Mpox spreads

Unlike COVID-19, mpox is not transmitted through the air in the same way. It spreads mainly through close physical contact with an infected person or contaminated materials. Here’s how transmission happens:

- Skin-to-skin contact – Touching sores, lesions, or bodily fluids of someone infected.

- Face-to-face contact – Prolonged exposure to respiratory droplets during talking, coughing, or kissing.

- Sexual contact – Through direct, intimate interactions.

- Indirect contact – Handling clothes, towels, bed linens, or surfaces that have been in contact with infectious lesions.

Mpox can also spread from animals to humans, particularly through bites, scratches, or handling of infected animals such as rodents or monkeys.

Symptoms to watch for

Symptoms typically appear within 3 to 17 days after exposure. They often begin mildly but can escalate, especially in vulnerable individuals. Common symptoms include:

- Fever

- Skin rash (often starting on the face or genitals)

- Swollen lymph nodes

- Muscle aches and back pain

- Headache

- Sore throat

- Fatigue

The characteristic rash evolves from flat lesions to fluid-filled blisters and eventually scabs, which fall off during recovery. Patients are considered contagious until all lesions have healed and new skin has formed.

In some cases, complications such as proctitis (inflammation of the rectum), pneumonia, or bacterial infections may occur, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

Who is most at risk

While most people infected with Clade II mpox recover within two to four weeks, certain groups face higher risks of severe illness:

- Individuals with weakened immune systems

- Children under one year old

- People with eczema or chronic skin conditions

- Pregnant individuals (due to potential transmission to the fetus)

Is Mpox deadly

Mpox is generally considered self-limiting, especially Clade II. In the Philippines, no fatalities have been directly attributed to mpox since the first local case was reported in July 2022. The virus, however, can exacerbate other health conditions.

As of December 2024, the Department of Health (DOH) reported 52 confirmed cases nationwide, with no deaths.

Is there a cure or vaccine

There is no specific cure for mpox. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the body’s recovery:

- Managing fever, pain, and skin irritation

- Ensuring adequate hydration and nutrition

- Preventing secondary infections

Some countries, like the United States, have deployed smallpox or mpox vaccines to control outbreaks. However, as of now, the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the use of any mpox vaccine in the country.

What you can do: Prevention tips

The DOH continues to urge the public to remain calm but cautious. Here’s how you can protect yourself and your community:

- Avoid close physical contact with individuals showing symptoms of mpox.

- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer.

- Avoid touching materials or surfaces that may be contaminated.

- Maintain good ventilation in indoor spaces.

- Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette.

- Stay informed and follow advisories from official health agencies.

Current situation and response in the Philippines

While confirmed mpox cases remain limited, several local governments and health agencies have activated protocols to prevent further spread.

In Central Visayas, the DOH is finalizing regional guidelines. The Bohol Provincial Health Office has already issued an urgent memo strengthening surveillance and public information drives.

Contact tracing and isolation of suspected cases are ongoing in Iloilo, Mandaue, and Talisay. Local officials emphasize that there is no evidence yet of widespread community transmission, but proactive measures are essential.

The bottom line

Mpox is a manageable disease. While its symptoms can be uncomfortable and alarming, the virus is far less contagious than COVID-19 and typically runs a mild course in healthy individuals. Early detection, timely medical care, and responsible behavior remain the strongest tools against its spread.

As health authorities work to contain local cases and ramp up public awareness, everyone must stay informed and cautious, without giving in to panic.

If you or someone you know develops symptoms consistent with mpox, consult a healthcare provider immediately.(TGP)