DOH confirms first case of monkeypox in PH - here’s what you need to know

By Jhon Dave Cusipag

Credits: stefamerpik

Manila, Philippines - The Department of Health (DOH) announced on Friday that they detected first case of monkeypox virus in the country. 

A 31-year-old overseas Filipino who arrived on July 19 was tested positive for monkeypox after undergoing RT-PCR test, DOH said in a briefing.

Health undersecretary Dr. Beverly Ho said the patient has travel history in countries with monkeypox cases and had at least 10 close contacts recorded, of which three lives on the same household. 

“The case has been discharged well and is undergoing strict isolation and monitoring at home,” Ho said. 

"No symptoms for the current close contacts, that's why they're all on quarantine, they're being observed," she added.

Here's what you need to know about monkeypox

What is monkeypox?

• Monkeypox is a rare viral infection, usually found in forested areas of Central and West Africa. The disease originates in animals, but in the last 50 years or so has also been reported in humans, World Health Organization (WHO) reported. 

How can monkeypox spread?

• WHO said monkeypox does not "normally spread easily" but can passes through prolonged close interaction with the confirmed patient and through the following:

1. If you had contact with the infected patient's body fluids and respiratory droplets.
2. Had contact with lesions on their skin, including eyes, nose and mouth.
3. You can also contract the virus through prolonged contact with the things used by infected patient, such as clothing, bedding and towels. 

What are the symptoms?

• Symptoms for the monkeypox usually shows around 6 to 21 days after getting long exposure from a confirmed patient.

• According to WHO, rashes with painful lesions are the common symptoms of monkeypox. Fever, muscle aches, chills, exhaustion, headaches, a sore throat, or swollen, painful lymph nodes are also observed.

How can the virus be treated?

• WHO said monkeypox usually go away within to 2-3 weeks without the need for treatment but some are required to take antibiotics and analgesia for secondary infections and pains.

How can you prevent contracting the virus?

• DOH said people shall still observed the same Covid-19 health protocols which includes wearing of masks, good ventilation in house, frequent hand washing, and practicing physical distancing.