Mati City Confirms First Monkeypox Case
Davao Oriental’s Mati City health officials have confirmed the first monkeypox case in the province, triggering immediate containment steps and urging the community to stay vigilant. This development marks a significant moment in the region’s public health monitoring.
Dr. Ben Hur G. Catbagan Jr., the city’s health officer, reported that the patient was initially assessed via the city’s telemedicine platform earlier this month. Subsequent tests conducted by the City Epidemiology, Surveillance and Response Unit (CESRU) and confirmed by the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) verified the monkeypox diagnosis.
Patient Status and Public Health Measures
The patient exhibited only mild symptoms and remained clinically stable, undergoing home isolation as per medical advice. Authorities promptly initiated contact tracing and surveillance of close contacts, following national health protocols to prevent further spread.
“As of today, there is no outbreak of Mpox in the city. We are closely monitoring the situation and urge the public to remain calm and cautious,” Catbagan emphasized. He assured that the City Health Office, in collaboration with barangay surveillance teams, is intensifying monitoring efforts through the Incident Management System aligned with Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in Health (DRRM-H) guidelines.
Understanding Monkeypox and Safety Precautions
Monkeypox, caused by an orthopoxvirus, spreads mainly through close contact with individuals exhibiting active skin lesions. Common symptoms include a painful rash, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. Although the disease is often self-limiting, severe cases can lead to complications and permanent scarring, local health officials noted.
To reduce the risk of transmission, the public is urged to practice frequent handwashing, avoid close contact with people showing rash or flu-like symptoms, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms arise.
Mpox Cases in Mindanao
The confirmed case in Mati raises the total monkeypox cases in Mindanao to 22. According to regional health monitoring groups, cases have been reported in South Cotabato, Davao City, Sarangani, and Davao de Oro, indicating the need for ongoing vigilance across the region.
Health authorities continue to emphasize the importance of community cooperation and adherence to health protocols to prevent further spread.
For more news and updates on monkeypox cases, visit Filipinokami.com.