The previously dormant Provincial Task Force for Emerging and Re-Emerging Infectious Diseases (PTF-EREID) convened recently to reorganize itself and discuss precautionary measures against the new threat posed by Monkeypox (Mpox).
During the meeting held Sept. 17, 2024, at RHAJ Inn in Virac, Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Hazel A. Palmes and PHO I Dr. Franchette Amabella D.P. Panti met with representatives of member agencies from national offices, government health facilities and local government units.
Presenters from the PHO’s Provincial Epidemiological Surveillance Unit led by Ma. Daisy Flores discussed possible measures and responses to Mpox, an infectious disease with symptoms similar to smallpox, although less severe.
Aside from rashes or blisters on the face, hands, feet, body, eyes, mouth or private parts that last for 2-4 weeks, other symptoms include fever, headache, body pain, back pain, weakness, swelling of lymph nodes and sore throat.
These symptoms manifest themselves 5 to 21 days after one has skin-to-skin contact with symptomatic case’s bodily fluids, lesions on the skin or on internal mucosal surfaces, respiratory droplets and contaminated objects.
Although Catanduanes currently has zero reported cases, the task force aims to implement preventive actions to mitigate the risks of infection in the island.
To protect themselves and others, people are urged to practice frequent and correct handwashing using water and soap, or 70% alcohol; frequently clean things or objects handled by other people; avoid crowding in populated areas and activities where close and intimate, skin-to-skin contact could not be avoided; use long-sleeved shirts, pants and face mask in public places; cover one’s mouth when coughing or sneezing; and immediately consult a doctor when noticing symptoms like fever or skin rash.
According to the Department of Health, Mpox cases usually heal by themselves, especially if there are no complications, with medicines like paracetamol and antihistamine used to ease symptoms like fever and itchiness.
Antiviral drugs are only recommended for severe cases of Mpox, particularly for immunocompromised patients, those with serious health conditions, or with complications.
As of Sept. 9, the Philippines has had a total of 14 cases of Mpox Clade II and all are recovering at home.
The DOH said the Mpox response, which includes prompt testing, contact tracing, and home care, makes it easy to break chains of transmission.
In a recent statement, Sec. Ted Herbosa said that while it anticipates more positive Mpox cases, the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-MEID) will not be activated and no border control or community quarantines will be implemented along with a face mask mandate.