Maguindanao del Norte: The Bangsamoro health ministry has confirmed two cases of mpox (monkeypox) in Maguindanao del Norte this week while actively monitoring six other potential infections, officials announced.

According to Philippines News Agency, the two recovered patients include a 59-year-old woman from Sultan Kudarat and a 28-year-old woman from Datu Odin Sinsuat. This was confirmed by Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Health Minister Dr. Kadil Sinolinding during an online briefing.

"Contact tracing is underway for their recent close contacts," Dr. Sinolinding stated as part of the health ministry's response to the situation.

The ministry is also monitoring six suspected cases: three from Cotabato City and one each from Sultan Kudarat, Parang, and Datu Montawal. These cases are currently undergoing confirmatory testing at Manila's Research Institute for Tropical Medicine. "All are cooperating with health protocols while we await results," Dr. Sinolinding added.

The health ministry has urged residents to report potential symptoms immediately, emphasizing that early detection plays a crucial role in preventing transmission.