DOH reports another Monkeypox infection

HEALTH AUTHORITIES reported another case of the dreaded Monkeypox disease, making it the fourth in the country after a 25-year old man has been tested positive for the highly contagious viral infection.

Officials have provided no other details about the latest case, but said the man has been placed in isolation and that contact tracing is going on to track down those who have contact with the patient.

“Intensive case investigation and contact tracing is ongoing. To date, fourteen close contacts have been identified. One is currently taking care of the case in the isolation facility while six are undergoing quarantine. One is a healthcare worker who had complete personal protection equipment at time of consultation of case, assessed as low risk, and is now self-monitoring. Details of the other six are being verified,” the Department of Health (DOH) said in a bulletin.

The DOH previously reported two recent cases of Monkeypox - both Filipinos - who had travelled to countries with documented cases of the disease. The duo, whose ages are 34 and 29, are also in isolation.

It said case investigation and contact tracing is ongoing for both cases. They are also being cared for and are under strict isolation. Note that the two new cases are not related to each other, or to the first case. The first case has already recovered and been discharged from isolation as of August 6.

Monkeypox spreads mostly by skin-to-skin contact with those who have rashes or open lesions. It is not like COVID-19 that spreads mostly through the air. Investigation of recent Monkeypox cases in non-endemic countries indicates potential transmission through sexual contact. Monkeypox symptoms are mild, and the disease is rarely fatal.

“Everyone can help prevent the spread of Monkeypox. Avoid close skin-to-skin contact with suspected cases, especially those with rashes or open wounds. Keep hands clean. Wear a face mask. Cover coughs using the elbow, and choose areas with good airflow,” the DOH said, adding that anyone may get Monkeypox. “If you have a travel history to countries with Monkeypox, and then have symptoms like fever, lymphadenopathy or “kulani”, and rashes, seek immediate medical attention. This will help hasten recovery.” (Mindanao Examiner)