BACOLOD City – The City Health Office (CHO) has launched contact tracing efforts after confirming the first case of mpox in the city to prevent the potential spread of the viral disease.
Mpox is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus and is characterized by symptoms such as a painful rash, swollen lymph nodes, and fever.
Dr. Grace Tan, chief of the CHO’s Environmental Sanitation Division, said contact tracing is ongoing. However, individuals identified as contacts will not be placed in isolation unless they develop symptoms.
“Contacts are not considered suspects unless they show symptoms,” Tan clarified.
In a public statement, Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez confirmed that the patient — who has no recent travel history — is currently in stable condition. The patient was referred by the CHO to the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital (CLMMRH) on June 13 and is now in isolation, receiving appropriate medical care.
The CHO is working closely with the Department of Health (DOH), CLMMRH, and other concerned agencies to ensure a swift and effective response.
Mayor Benitez assured the public that the city government has long prepared for situations like this.
“Mpox is a manageable disease. With proper health protocols, we can prevent further spread,” he said.
The outgoing mayor urged residents to cooperate by observing hygiene and safety measures, including frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with individuals who exhibit flu-like symptoms or unexplained skin rashes, and getting information only from official sources such as the DOH and the Bacolod City Public Information Office
“Let us be guided by facts, not fear,” said Benitez, who is also the congressman-elect of Bacolod’s Lone District. “We urge everyone to refrain from spreading unverified information that may cause unnecessary panic.”
The city government emphasized that all necessary steps are being taken to safeguard public health.
Meanwhile, CLMMRH called on the public to remain calm and stay informed through official health channels. The hospital also advised individuals, especially those experiencing rashes or flu-like symptoms, to seek early medical consultation, avoid close skin-to-skin contact, and refrain from sharing personal items./PN
