Online consultation system vs mpox eyed – DOH

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) is looking at operating an online consultation system for mpox patients nationwide.

Health Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo reported that the DOH intends to establish a virtual consultation mechanism in coordination with the Philippine Dermatological Society.

“Under the national action plan against mpox, the DOH will seek the help of the Philippine Dermatological Society in setting up a website, where suspect cases or those experiencing mpox symptoms can engage in online consultations,” Domingo posted on social media.

He said the virtual mechanism would form part of their ongoing preparations for a national response system for mpox.

“With the help of experts from the Philippine Dermatological Society, Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, and Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines, we are looking to make mpox screening, testing and referral more accessible,” he said.

Dermatologists are the most likely medical professionals that will initially handle mpox cases given the clear skin symptoms of the disease, according to the DOH.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has previously declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern.

The WHO has presented a draft mpox strategic preparedness and response plan, which highlights the need for all countries to heighten surveillance, improve reporting of cases and continue the strong collaboration and participation of the international community.

Meanwhile, to avoid unnecessary fear, the DOH yesterday cautioned against reporting unconfirmed mpox cases.

“There are many skin diseases that may be confused with mpox, such as chickenpox, shingles or herpes,” the agency noted.

It added that it has regularly received reports of suspected mpox cases ever since the first case was detected in July 2022, thus, the need for proper verification.

The DOH only discloses the detection of PCR-positive mpox cases as soon as verification is complete.

The agency, however, defers to local government units on their risk communication approach.