Baguio detects second Mpox case

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The surveillance team of the City Health Services Office (CHSO) here has detected the second Mpox case, a day after the first patient completed home isolation and declared as recovered on Jan 17.

According to the city’s public information office, the second Mpox case was that of a 22-year-old male resident with no travel history outside the country but with close contact two weeks before the onset of symptoms.

The CSHO said the man manifested flu-like symptoms with body malaise, chills and fatigue. Rashes on palms, face, arms, thorax, anorectal genitals and back area were also noted days after.

The man first sought consultation at a private hospital, where specimens were collected from skin lesions and sent to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM).

His case was also reported to the Department of Health on Jan. 18.

Test results showed him positive for Monkeypox viral DNA caused by the less severe Clade II type, which was similar to the city’s first Mpox case.

The CHSO said the patient was discharged from the hospital on Jan. 21 for home isolation.

Two of his asymptomatic close contacts were advised for quarantine – one until Feb. 6 and the other, Feb. 24.

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong re-assured the public that there is no cause for panic amid the emergence of the second case.

He reminded the public to practice health protocols such as frequent hand washing, wearing of facemask and physical distancing, especially in crowded and enclosed areas.

City Health Officer Celia Flor Brillantes, noting the large gatherings and celebrations in the city next month, said there is no cause for alarm as Mpox is not as transmissible as the COVID-19 virus.

Brillantes said Mpox could be transmitted through close contact activities, such as prolonged exposure, kissing and hugging someone infected.

Both of the city's laboratory-confirmed cases were found with history of intimate sexual contact.