21-06-2025
Ozamiz City logs first mpox case
An undated colorized transmission electron micrograph of mpox virus particles (pink) found within an infected cell (yellow), cultured in the laboratory, captured at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Integrated Research Facility (IRF) in Fort Detrick, Maryland. NIAID/ Handout via REUTERS
Health authorities have confirmed the first positive case of mpox in Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental, Mayor Indy Oaminal said in a press release on Friday, June 20, 2025.
The patient, who sought medical attention at the Mayor Hilarion A. Ramiro Sr. Medical Center, is currently in isolation and recovering well. He presented himself voluntarily for a check-up after experiencing symptoms.
The City Health Office (CHO) has launched contact tracing efforts immediately to prevent the possible spread of the disease.
Individuals identified as close contacts are now being monitored pursuant to the health protocols set by the Department of Health (DOH).
Oaminal urged the public not to panic, noting that the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine has confirmed that the mpox strain is Clade II, the milder and self-limiting form of the virus.
However, residents are still urged to remain vigilant and report to the nearest health facility if they experience symptoms such as a painful rash, swollen lymph nodes, fever, headache, muscle aches, or back pain.
The public is also reminded to practice proper hygiene such as regular handwashing, the use of close-fitting masks in public, and avoiding skin-to-skin contact.
"Even if the strain is not deadly, we cannot be complacent. Please remain vigilant and practice the prescribed self-protection measures against the virus. At the first sign of symptoms related to Mpox, immediately proceed to the health facility nearest you," Oaminal said. — GMA Regional TV
