BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The fourth confirmed monkeypox case in the country was detected by the Department of Health in Iloilo, on a person with no documented travel history, to or from any country.
In a statement, DOH6 regional director Adriano Suba-an disclosed that the monkeypox –infected 25-year-old Ilonggo, who is working in Iloilo City, is presently being treated and isolated in a hospital.
Suba-an added that the 14 close contacts of infected victim are being closely monitored, while investigation is still ongoing to determine the source of infection.
DOH advises the public in Western Visayas to remain calm, stressing that the disease symptoms are mild and rarely fatal. But it discouraged close, sustained physical contact with suspected cases, especially those rashes or skin lesions.
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Ernell Tumimbang yesterday said that their monitoring system of monkeypox in Negros Occidental is now in place, as they have already convened the Provincial Infection Disease Action and Control Council to address issues on re-emerging and emerging diseases, including dengue.
Tumimbang said he will have a face to face meeting on Thursday with the different City and Municipal Health Officers of 31 Local government units, to reiterate the guidance of DOH regional office on the monkeypox disease.
Monkeypox is spread through skin to skin contact with the infected individual or handling items that were touched or used by the case. It is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, but it is often transmitted through close and sustained physical contact, which can include sexual contact with those who have rashes or open lesions, DOH said.
Right now, we are coordinating with the Hospital Operations Division, with approval of Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz, in identifying an isolation hospital, if there is a need to treat patients, if there will be any in the province, Tumimbang said.
DOH told the public it can help prevent the spread of monkeypox by avoiding close and sustained physical contact with suspected cases, keeping hands clean, wearing face masks, covering cough with the inside of the elbow, and choosing areas with good airflow.* with report from PNA
