BY GLENDA TAYONA
CAPIZ – Following the first confirmed case of monkeypox in Western Visayas (WV), the Provincial Health Office (PHO) here appealed to Capiznons to remain calm but vigilant.
According to PHO director Dr. Ramon Alex Nolasco, it is critical that the public be informed about the monkeypox virus.
As a preventive measure, everyone is advised to avoid close and/or sustained skin-to-skin contact with suspected cases and their used objects, he said.
The PHO also emphasized to the public to strictly adhere to the minimum public health standards such as frequent and proper hand washing and other personal and environmental hygiene techniques, wearing of facemasks, observing physical / social distancing, practicing respiratory hygiene and etiquette, and choosing to stay in areas with good airflow.
The public is also urged to report any suspected cases and their contacts to barangay healthcare workers or the local health offices.
General signs and symptoms of people with monkeypox include rashes that may be on or near the genitals (penis, testicles, labia, and vagina) or anus or on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth and may be accompanied by fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, exhaustion, muscle aches and backaches, headaches, and respiratory symptoms such as sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough.
“Furthermore, the general public are advised to refrain from sharing and spreading of unverified news and information, especially referring to anyone’s personal data that might infringe on the right to privacy,” the PHO head added.
The first case in the region, particularly from Iloilo, is the country’s fourth case of monkeypox — a 25-year-old who worked in Iloilo City and has no documented travel history to or from countries with existing or known monkeypox confirmed cases. The said person is currently isolated and treated in a hospital while all of its 14 close contacts were already identified and closely monitored by local health authorities./PN
