In a significant health update, Baguio City has reported its first case of mpox, a disease that has been causing concern globally. The patient, a 28-year-old male, was diagnosed with the less severe Clade II variant of the virus. Fortunately, after completing his isolation period, the patient has recovered and was declared cured on January 17, 2025, according to the Baguio City Health Services Office.
Table of Contents
What is Mpox?
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a zoonotic disease, meaning it’s transmitted from animals to humans. While mpox is primarily spread through close physical contact, it’s important to note that it doesn’t spread easily through the air like other viruses, such as COVID-19. This disease typically causes flu-like symptoms, including fever, swollen lymph nodes, and skin lesions that are often pus-filled. Although it is generally mild, in rare cases, it can become fatal.
How Is Mpox Transmitted?
According to the Department of Health (DOH), mpox can spread between humans through various forms of direct and indirect contact, such as:
- Direct skin-to-skin contact, especially with lesions or rashes
- Breathing, talking, or kissing someone who has active lesions
- Sexual contact, including intimate physical closeness
- Touching contaminated items, such as bedding, clothes, or linens
It’s also important to be cautious with respiratory secretions (e.g., saliva, mucus), which can also play a role in transmission.
Symptoms of Mpox: What to Look For
The disease’s symptoms may appear anywhere between 5 to 21 days after exposure. Common signs include:
- Skin rash or mucosal lesions (often starting on the face or hands)
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Sore throat, muscle aches, and back pain
- Headache
- Low energy
If you experience these symptoms, especially after possible exposure to someone with mpox, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately.
How Baguio is Handling the Situation
The city’s health authorities have taken immediate action to ensure public safety. Following the confirmation of the first mpox case, the individual was quickly isolated, and preventive measures were put into place. Mayor Benjamin Magalong is urging Baguio residents to stay vigilant and continue following health protocols to minimize further risks.
Mayor Magalong emphasized the importance of wearing face masks, maintaining physical distancing, and ensuring proper ventilation in indoor spaces. These measures will help reduce the likelihood of mpox transmission.
Mpox in the Philippines: A Growing Concern?
As of December 2024, the Philippine Department of Health (DOH) reported a total of 52 confirmed cases of mpox in the country. Although the disease is still relatively uncommon, the DOH continues to raise awareness and encourage the public to adopt good hygiene practices to help prevent its spread.
Key Takeaways: How to Protect Yourself
- Practice good hygiene – wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
- Follow health protocols – wear masks, maintain distance, and ensure well-ventilated spaces.
- Be mindful of physical contact – avoid close contact with people showing symptoms of mpox.
By staying informed and following safety guidelines, we can help protect ourselves and others from the potential risks of mpox.
In Conclusion
While Baguio’s first mpox case is a reminder of the ongoing health challenges we face globally, the swift recovery of the patient shows that with proper care and caution, we can overcome these hurdles. Let’s continue to follow the guidelines set by health authorities to ensure our community remains safe and healthy.
Stay informed and take action—because staying safe is a shared responsibility!
