Agusan del Sur: The Provincial Health Office of Agusan del Sur (PHO-ADS) has reported the first confirmed case of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) in the area. The announcement marks a significant health development for the province.

According to Philippines News Agency, the patient recently traveled to Davao City and subsequently developed a pimple-like rash on his face, which led him to seek medical consultation. As a precautionary measure, the patient was isolated in a hospital while awaiting the results of a specimen sent to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine.

Following the confirmation of the mpox infection, the patient's immediate close contacts have been placed under quarantine and are currently under close monitoring. The PHO-ADS assured the public that, as of the latest advisory, these close contacts have not developed any signs or symptoms of the infection.

This case is also the first confirmed mpox case in the Caraga region, as confirmed by the Department of Health regional office (DOH-13) on Wednesday. The DOH-13 stated that they are maintaining close coordination with Agusan del Sur province regarding the situation.

DOH-13 has issued a reminder to residents to remain vigilant by avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, following respiratory etiquette, washing hands frequently, and disinfecting commonly used surfaces to prevent the transmission of the virus.