Capiz Reports First Confirmed Case of Mpox: Health Officials Respond

The Province of Capiz, Philippines, has confirmed its first case of mpox, previously known as monkeypox, as reported by the Provincial Health Office (PHO) on June 21, 2025. Health authorities received confirmation following the testing of seven suspected cases by the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM), where one tested positive and another negative. The confirmed individual is currently in home isolation while experiencing recovery, and close contacts are under monitoring to prevent further transmission.

The announcement has prompted the Capiz Provincial Government to coordinate with 17 local health offices, five government hospitals, and Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams (BHERTS) to manage the situation effectively. This proactive measure aims to ensure swift responses to any additional suspected cases of mpox in the region. The provincial government has urged the public to remain calm while adhering to health protocols, particularly those regarding hygiene, to mitigate the risk of contracting the virus.

Mpox is a zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which can be transmitted from animals to humans. Human transmission occurs through direct contact with bodily fluids, skin-to-skin contact, or through lesions of an infected individual. Symptoms of mpox include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic skin rash or mucosal lesions. As of now, there is no specific treatment available for mpox; however, supportive care is provided to manage symptoms.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa emphasized that patients will receive supportive care, which includes medications such as paracetamol for fever and anti-itch ointments for discomfort. In cases where patients have comorbid conditions, antiviral medications may also be prescribed. Currently, vaccines that can prevent mpox are not available in the Philippines, although health officials are closely monitoring international developments regarding vaccine availability.

The situation in the province of Aklan remains unaffected, with no reported cases of mpox at this time. As health officials continue to manage the confirmed case and monitor potential contacts, the importance of public awareness and adherence to health protocols remains paramount in curbing the spread of mpox within the community.

Experts are calling for increased public health education to inform communities about the transmission and prevention of mpox. Dr. Maria Lopez, an epidemiologist at the University of the Philippines, noted, "Public awareness is crucial. Understanding how mpox spreads can significantly reduce the risk of outbreaks."

In light of the confirmed case, the Department of Health is expected to intensify its surveillance and response strategies across the nation, particularly in regions with high-risk factors for disease transmission. This incident underscores the importance of global health security and the need for ongoing vigilance against zoonotic diseases, particularly as the world continues to grapple with the implications of previous pandemics.

As the situation evolves, health officials will provide updates to ensure transparency and maintain public trust. The Capiz Provincial Government, alongside national health authorities, remains committed to protecting the health and safety of its residents while navigating this new public health challenge.