Negros Occidental Reports First Confirmed Mpox Case

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The Provincial Health Office of Negros Occidental has confirmed its first case of monkeypox (mpox) and urged the public to remain calm.

“Indi magpakulba” (Don’t be scared), Provincial Health Officer Dr. Girlie Pinongan said Tuesday, assuring that the patient is now stable and recovering.

Pinongan said the patient is a 20-year-old woman from Talisay City with a history of domestic travel.

Health authorities have not confirmed the exact source of the infection.

The patient sought medical attention in the second week of June after developing rashes and swollen lymph nodes.

She was advised to take an mpox test and undergo home isolation.

“The result arrived over the weekend and turned out positive,” Pinongan said.

She added that the patient began treatment immediately and is completing a 21-day isolation period at home with household members, who have shown no symptoms so far.

Pinongan said the PHO is closely monitoring the patient, while the Talisay City Health Office has conducted contact tracing.

“Indi lang gid magkabalaka ang public sa sini na case” (The public should not worry about this case), she added.

Pinongan reminded residents to maintain proper hygiene, noting that mpox is transmitted through close contact and not airborne.

She advised those with symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and unexplained rashes to seek early consultation for prompt treatment.

She also clarified that this case is not related to Bacolod’s first mpox case.

The PHO is currently awaiting test results for two to three more suspected cases.

Talisay City Mayor Neil Lizares III assured the public in a statement Monday night that the city is fully prepared to respond and manage the situation.

“Mpox is a manageable disease, and with strict adherence to proper health protocols, we can effectively prevent its further spread,” he said.

Lizares said the patient is under medical supervision, properly isolated, and receiving appropriate care.

He added that contact tracing and necessary protocols were carried out shortly after the patient was initially suspected of having mpox.

The public was advised to seek medical consultation, avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals, practice frequent handwashing and use of alcohol-based sanitizers, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and wear face masks in crowded areas.

“Let us work together to protect the health and safety of our community,” Lizares said.

Last week, Bacolod City confirmed its first mpox case and is still investigating the source, as the patient had no travel history.