Bacolod City – Aside from highly urbanized Bacolod City, Negros Occidental remains mpox-free, the Provincial Health Office has declared.
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Girlie Pinongan reported that a suspected case of mpox turned out to be negative after laboratory testing.
The first mpox patient in highly urbanized Bacolod City is now in stable condition, and receiving appropriate care in isolation, outgoing Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez disclosed.
“I want to assure everyone that the city government has long prepared for situations like this. Mpox is a manageable disease, and with proper health protocols, we can prevent further spread”, said Benitez, who is the incoming representative of the Bacolod Lone District.
The City Health Office has activated its protocols to manage the situation, and ensure continued public safety, in close coordination with the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital (CLMMRH).
According to the Department of Health, mpox is a viral disease causing fever, swollen lymph nodes, and rashes. The virus is transmitted through contact with an infected person’s or animal’s bodily fluids, wounds, and respiratory droplets.
In another statement, the CLMMRH assured its patients, staff and visitors that the risk to the general public remains low (as mpox) is not known to be transmitted via the airborne route, as it encouraged the community to remain calm and stay informed through official health channels.
Pinongan said mpox is transmitted through skin to skin contact, and is not airborne, although its treatment is similar to COVID-19, where the patient is placed under isolation.
She added that hospitals were already instructed to give priority to patients experiencing mpox symptoms, for medical checkups, and to isolate them immediately from other patients.
Rep. Greg Gasataya, who is set to assume office as Bacolod City mayor on June 30, also assured that the CHO is on top of the situation and that all necessary assistance will be provided to deal with the situation.
The Bacolod City government strongly discourages any form of discrimination toward patients or their families.
The CHO called on the public to stay calm, practice proper hygiene, observe health protocols, and seek medical attention if symptoms arise. (Gilbert Bayoran via tvds)
