Negros Oriental Forms Mpox Task Force as Precaution

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – Although no monkeypox (Mpox) cases have been reported in Negros Oriental, the provincial government has formed a task force to prevent and control a potential outbreak.

Gov. Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria issued an executive order Monday creating the Negros Oriental Mpox Task Force.

The order cites monkeypox cases in other parts of the country as a significant public health threat.

Sagarbarria emphasized the need to strengthen the province’s preparedness and response systems to ensure early detection, isolation, treatment and containment of suspected or confirmed Mpox cases.

He also stressed the importance of inter-agency coordination and community involvement in curbing the spread of infectious diseases.

The executive order notes that the Department of Health has already released advisories and guidelines for the prevention, detection and management of monkeypox.

The newly created task force is chaired by Sagarbarria, with the provincial health officer serving as vice chairperson.

It includes key provincial officials and health personnel.

The task force will oversee monitoring, conduct public education campaigns, implement health protocols and manage resource allocation to address Mpox risks.

City and municipal mayors have been directed to activate their local health emergency response teams, launch awareness campaigns, conduct active surveillance, ensure local health facility readiness and coordinate with the provincial task force.

Residents are urged to follow health protocols such as maintaining hygiene, observing physical distancing, reporting suspected cases and cooperating with contact tracing efforts.

The provincial government reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, collaboration and proactive action in addressing the monkeypox threat.

Meanwhile, Sagarbarria visited the Department of Health–Negros Island Region office Monday, located on the third floor of the Integrated Provincial Health Office at the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital Compound in Barangay Piapi, Dumaguete City.

The visit aimed to boost coordination and discuss upcoming health programs in preparation for the regional office’s official inauguration on June 18, which will be attended by national health officials.

The governor expressed support for improving health services and strengthening ties with national health agencies.