MANILA, Philippines — Four new cases of mpox were recorded in the Calabarzon region, the Department of Health said.
The DOH in Calabarzon said four patients began experiencing symptoms, which include rashes or sores lasting several weeks, fever, headache and muscle aches, during the first week of November.
The four – three from Rizal and one from Laguna – tested positive for MPVX DNA Clade II or mpox, the DOH said.
It added that three are on monitored home isolation and are receiving appropriate medical care while the fourth case – a 66-year-old woman from Laguna – requires hospitalization.
The DOH said the four bring the total number of cases in Calabarzon to 13.
DOH Assistant Secretary Ariel Valencia urged the public to remain alert and avoid panic.
“We must remain vigilant, especially as the number of mpox cases is increasing in the region. However, there is no need for alarm. With robust public health measures, such as effective prevention, accurate detection and timely isolation of mpox cases, we can curb its spread and protect our community,” Valencia said.