First Mpox Case Confirmed in Caraga Region Agusan
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — The Provincial Health Office of Agusan del Sur (PHO-ADS) has announced the first confirmed mpox case in the province, which is also the first mpox case in the entire Caraga region.
According to Dr. Jacqueline Frances Momville, the provincial health officer, the patient recently traveled to Davao City. Upon returning home, the individual developed a pimple-like rash on the face, leading him to seek medical attention.
Immediate Isolation and Monitoring
The patient was promptly isolated in a local hospital to receive close monitoring and symptomatic treatment. Laboratory confirmation came from the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) after analyzing the patient’s specimens.
The patient’s close contacts have since been quarantined and are under strict observation. Momville reassured the public that, as of the latest report, none of these contacts have shown symptoms of the virus.
Regional Health Authorities Respond
The Department of Health’s regional office (DOH-13) confirmed this as the first mpox case in the Caraga region. “We are in close coordination with Agusan del Sur province regarding the case,” a DOH-13 official said.
Health authorities urged residents to stay vigilant. They recommended avoiding close contact with anyone showing symptoms, practicing proper respiratory hygiene, washing hands regularly, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
Community Precautions and Awareness
Local health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and encourage the public to report any unusual symptoms promptly. These measures aim to contain the virus and protect the community.
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