ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY, Philippines โ May 25, 2025ย โ Health officials in Zamboanga Sibugay have confirmed the provinceโs first case of Mpox (monkeypox), involving a three-year-old girl from the municipality of Tungawan.
The Provincial Health Office (PHO) said the child is now recovering after receiving medical attention at the Dr. George T. Hofer Medical Center (DGTHMC) in Ipil. She was initially seen on May 5 at the Tungawan Rural Health Office, where samples were collected and sent to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) in Muntinlupa for confirmation.
Following the confirmation, the patient and her immediate family were placed under home quarantine. Contact tracing efforts began immediately to identify and monitor close contacts.
Health officials said all identified contacts are now under observation, in line with national health protocols.
Mpox is a viral illness that spreads through prolonged, close physical contact. It is typically self-limiting, with symptoms including fever, skin rashes, and swollen lymph nodes.
The PHO urged the public to adhere to preventive health measures similar to those implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic โ including wearing well-fitted masks, regular handwashing, physical distancing, and avoiding contact with symptomatic individuals.
Authorities stressed that health surveillance systems are in place and all necessary measures are being carried out to contain the infection.
The PHO also reminded healthcare workers and the public to remain alert for other diseases that mimic Mpox, such as chickenpox, herpes, HFMD, and other febrile rash illnesses. Diagnostic protocols have been activated in health facilities across the province.
Governor Ann Hofer said the provincial government, in coordination with the Department of Health and the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, is closely monitoring the situation.
Officials called for public calm and urged residents to seek information only from verified health sources.
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