Davao City: The City Health Office (CHO) has strengthened its efforts to curb the spread of mpox (formerly monkeypox) by intensifying contact tracing and monitoring activities throughout the city.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. Sofia Corazon Zafra, CHO program manager for emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, announced that Davao City currently has seven confirmed mpox cases, with four individuals having recovered. Out of the 49 close contacts identified, 35 have completed the mandated 21-day monitoring period without showing signs or symptoms of mpox, while the remaining 14 individuals remain under observation.

As part of its comprehensive prevention strategy, the CHO has been rigorously enforcing minimum health protocols. These measures include proper handwashing, consistent use of sanitizers, thorough disinfecting of surfaces, and strictly avoiding close interactions with suspected cases.

Zafra urged individuals suspected of having mpox to isolate immediately and seek prompt medical care by notifying local health authorities. Mpox typically presents with a characteristic rash, accompanied by symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. The rash can evolve from flat spots to fluid-filled blisters, which eventually scab over.