Nationwide mpox cases rise to 52; no infections reported in palawan

The currently circulating strain is Clade IIb, considered a milder variant of the virus. Most patients exhibit mild symptoms and are recovering well with supportive care. No new fatalities have been reported recently.

Regions with reported cases include:

* Davao City, which added four new cases this week, totaling six since April, including one earlier death.

* South Cotabato, with ten confirmed infections.

* Maguindanao del Norte, with two confirmed cases and six others under monitoring.

* Zamboanga Sibugay, reporting two cases, including a three-year-old child.

* Davao de Oro, which confirmed its first case recently.

* Central Visayas, with one confirmed case in Cebu and two suspected cases in Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu Cities.

Meanwhile, Palawan remains free of any confirmed or suspected mpox cases. Health officials in the province have placed several municipalities on alert as a precaution, reinforcing surveillance and readiness to respond quickly should cases emerge.

The DOH urged the public to stay vigilant despite the milder virus strain. “While most cases have been mild, the risk of transmission, especially in densely populated areas, remains a public health priority,” the department said.

Local government units are tasked with intensifying case detection, isolation of suspected cases, and community education campaigns. The DOH is also updating protocols to assist local health centers, especially in provinces with limited resources.

Residents are reminded to watch out for symptoms such as fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. Good hygiene, avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, and early reporting remain the best defenses against the spread of mpox.

With the rising cases nationwide, coordinated efforts between national and local health authorities remain crucial to contain the outbreak and protect vulnerable populations.