All Confirmed Monkeypox Cases Are Clade II Variant
Health officials have confirmed that all monkeypox cases in the country belong to the milder Clade II variant, rather than the more severe Clade I strain. According to sources familiar with the matter, this distinction is important because Clade II carries a significantly lower health risk.
Local government units have reported monkeypox infections, but experts emphasize that these are exclusively Clade II cases. The Clade I variant, which led to a global public health emergency, has not been detected in the country so far.
“Hindi ito ‘yung mpox na may public health emergency na may international concern. Ang Mpox Clade IB ang hinahanap namin. So wala pa kaming nakitang Mpox Clade IB sa Pilipinas,” said an official, underscoring the absence of the more dangerous strain.
Understanding the Clade II Variant and Its Impact
Clade II is considered mild and usually resolves without complications. It spreads mainly through close, skin-to-skin contact, often involving intimate interactions. Isolation during infection is crucial to prevent transmission.
“Iyong II, ano ‘yun, very mild, self-limiting at ang transmission niya, skin-to-skin contact, so very intimate contact so very important mag-isolate at kapag gumaling, hopefully, walang problema,” the source added, highlighting the importance of proper care and isolation.
While there have been reported deaths among those with monkeypox, health experts clarify that the fatalities were linked to advanced HIV conditions, not the virus itself.
Symptoms and Transmission of Monkeypox
According to global health authorities, monkeypox symptoms often include a painful rash, swollen lymph nodes, fever, sore throat, muscle aches, headaches, and fatigue. People usually recover within two to four weeks.
Transmission occurs mainly through close physical contact with an infected person showing symptoms. This includes skin contact, sexual activity, kissing, or prolonged face-to-face exposure. The virus can also spread through contaminated objects like clothing, bedding, or surfaces, as well as needle injuries in healthcare or tattoo settings.
Those with multiple sexual partners face a higher risk of contracting monkeypox due to increased exposure opportunities.
Additional Risks and Precautions
Monkeypox can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy or childbirth, which may cause serious complications, including pregnancy loss or newborn death.
Symptoms typically begin within 1 to 21 days after exposure. The rash often starts on the face or genitals before spreading to other parts of the body. It evolves from flat sores to fluid-filled blisters, which eventually dry and fall off as they heal.
Preventive Measures and Outlook
Health authorities emphasize isolating infected individuals to curb the spread of monkeypox. Since Clade II is less severe and self-limiting, recovery is generally expected without major issues if patients follow recommended precautions.
Community leaders and health experts continue to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any symptoms promptly.
For more news and updates on monkeypox cases in the country, visit Filipinokami.com.