First Mpox case in Cebu confirmed

Local

CEBU has recorded its first confirmed case of monkeypox (mpox), local officials announced Thursday, May 29.

Talisay City Mayor Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas confirmed that the patient who tested positive for mpox has died but clarified that the cause of death was not the virus itself.

“I’ve received reports circulating about a supposed Mpox-related death in our city. I would like to clarify that while the patient did test positive for Mpox, the cause of death was not Mpox,” he said in a social media post.

“Naa lay lain gipamati ang patient which was the actual cause of death. Kini buot pasabot, ang hinungdan sa iyang kamatayon kay iyahang gipamati nga sakit ug dili ang Mpox,” Gullas added.

The patient was quarantined following Department of Health-Central Visayas (DOH-7) protocols.

Gullas said he waited for official clearance from the DOH before making the case public.

“Somewhat similar lang gyud cya sa chickenpox or hang-ga. Angay lang gyud e quarantine kung naa. Di ta angayang mabalaka, angayan natong buhaton mao nga makisayod og mosonod sa pahimangno sa DOH,” the mayor said.

In nearby Mandaue City, health officials are monitoring a suspected case involving a 39-year-old man with a persistent skin lesion.

Dr. Debra Catulong, head of the Mandaue City Health Office, said the patient consulted the outpatient department Thursday morning and had a specimen taken for testing with assistance from DOH.

She advised the public to isolate immediately if they notice suspicious skin lesions and to continue practicing preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, wearing face masks, and avoiding crowded areas.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mpox can also spread through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated materials such as clothing or linens.

The WHO recommends avoiding skin-to-skin contact with individuals who have a rash or flu-like symptoms, not sharing personal items like towels or utensils, and maintaining good hand hygiene.

If symptoms such as rashes, swollen lymph nodes, fever, or body aches appear, individuals are urged to consult a healthcare provider immediately and self-isolate to prevent possible transmission.(MyTVCebu)