MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) branded as “fake news” social media posts regarding the implementation of lockdowns due to mpox virus.
DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Dr. Albert Domingo warned the public to reject such information, stating that mpox numbers in May have actually declined compared to cases logged in April 2025.
“Huwag paniwalaan ang mga kumakalat na pekeng Facebook posts na may mapanlinlang na marketing strategy, pekeng endorsement mula sa mga eksperto, at hindi makatotohanang mga pahayag tungkol sa kalusugan,” Domingo said.
Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus. Symptoms typically include fever, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and a progressive rash that turns into blisters.
The virus is primarily transmitted through close physical contact, respiratory droplets, or contact with contaminated materials.
Although there is no specific treatment for mpox, symptoms are typically self-limiting and can be managed with supportive care.
“Walang pangangailangang magkaroon ng lockdown dahil sa mpox, dahil hindi ito airborne,” said Domingo.
Domingo further said they have already coordinated with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to take down the misleading social media posts and accounts.
Domingo also said the ountry has yet to detect a case of the more severe mpox clade 1B.
“Wala pa ring mpox ng clade 1B na nakikita dito sa Pilipinas. Panay clade 2 ang meron natin. Mas mababa ang mortality o pagkamatay ng clade 2. Nasa mga isa sa bawat 10, kumpara sa apat hanggang lima ng clade 1B,” Domingo said.
The DOH official also advised the public to get accurate health information from the DOH website and social media accounts only./PN
