Manila: Wearing face masks will not prevent the spread of mpox (monkeypox), according to a group of specialists in infectious diseases. This announcement comes amid circulating misinformation online suggesting that mandatory face masks and a nationwide lockdown will be implemented to curb the infection's spread.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Inc. (PSMID) clarified in a statement that mpox is not transmitted through the airborne route, meaning it does not spread through the air across rooms, marketplaces, offices, or even inside planes. Therefore, the society emphasized that compulsory masking in such areas or within the broader community is unnecessary.
The Department of Health (DOH) has also denied rumors about an impending lockdown due to mpox cases being monitored across the country. Health authorities have identified that the predominant mode of mpox transmission is through prolonged skin-to-skin contact, including activities such as kissing, sexual relations, and hugging with infected individuals.
Moreover, mpox can be spread via respiratory droplets from those who are sick and through contact with surfaces contaminated by materials from mpox lesions, such as towels or bed linens. The PSMID advised individuals with skin rashes to consult healthcare workers for proper assessment, as mpox can be confirmed through PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing of a sample from the rash.
The society recommended that individuals with a rash take precautions to prevent spreading the infection, given mpox's contagious nature. This includes covering lesions with clean gauze, avoiding close skin-to-skin contact, and not sharing personal items while the rash is present. Consulting healthcare professionals for proper assessment and treatment is also crucial.
Infected individuals are advised to remain in a dedicated room to limit contact with others during their recovery. The PSMID noted that there is no proven antiviral drug for mpox, but most individuals will recover without antiviral treatment. However, those with other medical conditions, such as uncontrolled or untreated HIV or cancer, may develop more severe skin lesions and require hospital admission for management.
The society also mentioned that there is a vaccine available to prevent mpox, though the global supply is limited. The DOH reported last week that all mpox cases in the country belong to Clade 2, not the fatal Clade 1B strain responsible for the 2024 outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The public is encouraged to obtain information about mpox and other health issues solely from credible sources, including the World Health Organization, the DOH, and medical societies.
