Negros Occidental: Health authorities in Negros Occidental on Tuesday reminded Negrenses to observe proper hygiene and avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms after Talisay City recorded the province's first mpox case, following the initial case reported in this capital city last week. Dr. Ma. Girlie Pinongan, provincial health officer, allayed concerns as the patient, a 20-year-old female, has already been treated and is recovering in isolation at home.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. Ma. Girlie Pinongan stated, "As of now, according to the local government unit, the patient is in stable condition. After she took a test, she was treated immediately." She further urged Negrenses to maintain good hygiene by washing hands frequently to avoid infectious diseases.

Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, usually starts with flu-like symptoms, including fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Rashes develop within a few days. In a health advisory, Dr. Joy Gladys Guanzon, city health officer, told residents of Talisay City to stay calm and be informed.

"With the recorded first positive mpox case in the city, we urge everyone to intensify observance of our public health protocols," Dr. Guanzon stated. These protocols include wearing face masks in crowded places, regular and proper handwashing and use of alcohol-based sanitizers, covering the mouth when coughing and sneezing, and practicing a healthy lifestyle to boost one's immune system. She added, "Stay at home when you are not feeling well."

Mayor Neil Lizares III assured the public that the city government is prepared to handle the situation, noting that mpox is a manageable disease. "With strict adherence to proper health protocols, we can effectively prevent its further spread," he said.

Last June 15, Bacolod City, located adjacent to Talisay City, confirmed its first case of mpox, referred by the City Health Office to the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital on June 13.