Dumaguete: Governor Manuel Sagarbarria on Monday established the Negros Oriental MPOX Task Force through an executive order to prevent the entry and spread of the viral infection in the province following reports of suspected cases in nearby Cebu and Negros Occidental. The task force is composed of key officials, including the governor, vice governor, provincial directors of government, and other relevant agencies, to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive response, a post on the province's Facebook page said.

According to Philippines News Agency, the task force's functions include monitoring, education campaigns, health protocols, and resource allocation to mitigate the impact of the virus. Provincial Health Office chief Dr. Liland Estacion told the agency in an interview that so far, no mpox cases have been reported in Negros Oriental, even as she called on health workers and local government units to step up information drives.

Dr. Estacion stated, "We are undertaking information drives for our constituents through the barangay health workers and health centers to educate them on mpox." She emphasized the importance of prevention measures, such as avoiding skin contact and isolating patients suspected of having the disease.

Furthermore, Dr. Estacion assured the public of the province's readiness in the event that mpox penetrates its shores. She noted that although the situation is not alarming and mpox can be treated, immediate medical attention should be sought when symptoms like rashes and fever appear, with isolation being recommended.

She explained the distinction between mpox and chicken pox, noting that while chicken pox rashes appear on many parts of the body, mpox rashes are typically found on the extremities and palms.