Health officials in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have confirmed two monkeypox cases in Maguindanao del Norte, with six additional individuals currently being monitored for possible infection.
Monkeypox Explained
Monkeypox–now more commonly referred to as mpox–is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family as smallpox.
It can spread from animals to humans and between people through close physical contact. Symptoms include fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue, followed by a rash that develops into fluid-filled lesions.
The Confirmed Cases
The Ministry of Health identified the confirmed patients as a 59-year-old woman from Sultan Kudarat and a 28-year-old woman from Datu Odin Sinsuat. Both have since recovered from the illness.
“Contact tracing is underway for their recent close contacts,” BARMM Health Minister Dr. Kadil Sinolinding said in an online update.
In addition, the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RTM) in Manila has received testing samples from the six more suspected cases and is now currently in the process of determining whether or not these patients will add to the tally of confirmed monkeypox cases.
“All are cooperating with health protocols while we await results," Sinolinding added in his online appearance.
Should The People Be Worried?
In comparison with COVID-19, monkeypox is slower and far less efficient in terms of transmission. Vaccines are also currently available to combat the disease.
Dr. Sinolinding urged the public to remain calm but vigilant. He stressed the importance of reporting symptoms early, especially for those who may have been exposed to infected individuals. He also assured residents that those under observation are following proper isolation protocols.
As of now, the level of urgency regarding the chances of monkeypox being a pandemic threat is low, but it remains a public health concern worth keeping an eye on.
