TALISAY City Mayor Neil Lizares confirmed the first case of mpox (monkeypox) in Talisay City, Negros Occidental.
Lizares, in a statement released on Monday evening, June 23, 2025, said the patient is currently in stable condition, under close medical supervision, properly isolated, and receiving appropriate medical treatments to manage symptoms.
“As of date, the patient is now recovering from the said disease,” he said.
He added that contact tracing and all necessary health protocols have already been carried out over the past few days since the receipt of the patient’s sample.
“We assure everyone that the City Government is fully prepared to handle this situation. Mpox is a manageable disease, and with strict adherence to proper health protocols, we can effectively prevent its further spread,” the mayor said.
Lizares urged the public to remain calm and informed.
The mayor said mpox is a viral illness that spreads primarily through close and prolonged contact with an infected individual. Transmission may occur through respiratory droplets, direct contact with skin lesions or bodily fluids, or through contaminated materials such as clothing or bedding.
The common symptoms of mpox include fever and chills, swollen lymph nodes, headache and muscle aches, fatigue, skin rashes or lesions, which may appear on the face, hands, feet, or genitals
Symptoms typically appear five to 21 days after exposure and usually resolve within two to four weeks. Most cases are mild and self-limiting, though severe cases can occur, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
“To help prevent the spread of mpox, we strongly encourage the public to seek proper medical consultation or call the City Health Office for proper advisement if symptoms of mpox manifests,” Lizares said.
He also called on Talisaynons to cooperate and avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms of mpox or those with suspected cases, practice proper hygiene, including frequent handwashing and applying alcohol-based sanitizers, healthy lifestyle to boost immune system, and wear face masks in crowded places.
“Let us work together to protect the health and safety of our community. Stay updated through official health bulletins and refrain from spreading unverified information,” Lizares said. (MAP)