Manila: The Department of Health (DOH) has refuted circulating online claims that a lockdown is being enforced in the country due to mpox (monkeypox). The department is urging the public to rely only on information provided through its official social media channels.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DOH stated that there is currently no need to impose a lockdown as mpox is not considered airborne. The department noted that while mpox cases in 2024 and April this year were substantially higher compared to those in May, this does not necessitate a lockdown.

A graph shared with the media illustrated that confirmed cases in April 2024 surpassed those in May, though specific figures were not disclosed. The DOH mentioned that the increased attention to mpox cases is partly due to local government units being more proactive in reporting.

The department clarified that the mpox cases recorded so far have been of the milder Clade II variant, rather than the more deadly Mmpox Clade I-b. The mortality rate for Clade II is approximately 1 in 10, which is notably lower than the 4 in 5 mortality rate associated with Clade I-b.

The DOH continues to advise the public to pay attention to health advisories provided via its official social media platforms.