Monkeypox (or mpox, as it’s now more commonly called) isn’t new, but it’s back in the headlines.
In the latest episode of Health Matters, host Doc Tong Untalan welcomed Dr. Bernard Demot, an infectious disease specialist at Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC), to discuss what Filipinos need to know about the current mpox health alert in the country.
Mpox was first detected in laboratory monkeys in Africa in 1958, though it’s not exclusive to primates. The virus that causes mpox is related to the smallpox virus, which was eradicated globally in 1980. While mpox is less deadly than smallpox, it still poses a serious public health concern, especially for certain vulnerable groups.
Transmission can occur through direct contact with infected skin lesions, body fluids, respiratory droplets, or contaminated materials, such as clothing or bedding. According to Dr. Demot, there’s also a risk of mpox passing from mother to child during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, during vaginal birth, and even after birth through breastfeeding.
In the Philippines, the more common type is Clade II, which causes less severe illness compared to Clade I found in Central Africa. Still, that doesn’t mean Clade II should be taken lightly as it’s highly transmissible.
“The symptoms are usually flu-like at first: fever, body aches, swollen lymph nodes, followed by a rash that often starts on the face and spreads,” Dr. Demot explains. “The rashes can be painful or itchy and go through several stages before scabbing over.”
So, who’s most at risk? Individuals with weakened immune systems, children, pregnant women, and those with close or prolonged physical contact with infected individuals.
Communities should be alert, but there’s no need to panic. “Stay calm, but be observant,” says Dr. Demot. “If you’ve had contact with someone who has mpox symptoms or if you begin to feel unwell yourself, seek medical advice right away.”
Prevention remains the best protection. The basics still work, including good hygiene, frequent handwashing, using protective barriers when caring for the sick, and avoiding close contact with individuals who have visible lesions or unexplained rashes. For high-risk groups, vaccines are available and recommended.
“Vaccination isn’t for everyone at this time,” notes Dr. Demot, “but if you’re in a high-risk category—such as a healthcare worker, someone with a known exposure, or are immunocompromised—you should talk to a doctor about your options.”
Another key point raised during the episode is that stigma makes things worse.
“Mpox is not a ‘shameful’ disease,” Dr. Demot emphasizes. “People need support. If someone is infected, they deserve access to medical care and respect, not fear or discrimination.”
The Department of Health has protocols in place for managing suspected cases, and local hospitals like BGHMC are prepared to offer guidance, testing, and treatment if necessary. But awareness begins in the community, with information, compassion, and a willingness to act swiftly and responsibly.
Public health measures work best when everyone participates. Vaccination, hygiene, isolation when sick, and transparent communication can prevent outbreaks from spreading.
So, even though mpox may be in the headlines again, with access to the right information and cooperation, we can stay one step ahead.
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