The Department of Health (DOH) 13 (Caraga Region) has intensified its vigilance against mpox, implementing robust surveillance mechanisms and preventive measures to monitor the potential entry of the disease into the region.

Dr. Dioharra Aparri, head of the Health Program Support Team at DOH-13, said in a press conference here Wednesday that there are no reported cases of mpox in the region. However, the department is proactively enhancing its preparedness and response strategies.

“An orientation on mpox is scheduled with the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council on Sept. 9. This will facilitate the creation of a broader task force that includes representatives from local government units (LGUs) and relevant agencies,” Aparri said.

These preparations align with Department Memorandum 2024-0306, issued by the DOH on Aug. 24, which outlines guidelines for the prevention, detection, and management of mpox, she said.

Aparri emphasized the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion among health care front-liners when evaluating symptoms consistent with mpox, such as acute, unexplained rashes or blisters, mucosal lesions, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

Since January, the country has reported 59 suspected cases of mpox, with eight confirmed, 32 negative, and 19 pending results. Symptoms are closely monitored in individuals with a history of contact with confirmed mpox cases or travel to affected countries.

Mpox primarily spreads through close intimate contact, including sexual activities, kissing, hugging, and other forms of skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.

Aparri urged residents to adhere to minimum health standards, including wearing face masks in crowded places and practicing regular handwashing and disinfection.

The DOH-13 Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit is actively monitoring all entry points into Caraga, including airports and seaports, to ensure early detection and containment of potential cases. (PNA)