LAPU-LAPU City has recorded its first confirmed mpox case for 2025, but the patient has recovered and is no longer contagious, a local health official said.
City Health Office (CHO) head Dr. Agnes Realiza told SunStar Cebu that the patient — a 27-year-old male who rents a room in the city — tested positive for the viral disease in mid-May has completed a 21-day home quarantine.
The patient, who had no travel history, was the same person initially suspected of being infected with the virus.
Mpox is a viral disease transmitted mainly through close, personal contact and is known for causing rashes, fever and swollen lymph nodes. While most cases are mild, the illness can lead to complications if left untreated.
Realiza said the patient received treatment, primarily antihistamines and antibiotics, to manage skin rashes.
The city health chief declined to disclose the patient's hometown.
“For the itching, an antihistaminic was prescribed…Our medical officer handled the case and provided antibiotics to prevent any secondary bacterial skin infections,” said Realiza in a mix of Cebuano and English.
She added that the patient began isolation during the second week of May and was reassessed at the end of the 21-day period.
The CHO conducted contact tracing, and all exposed individuals were asymptomatic, said Realiza.
After the patient showed no remaining symptoms, a doctor declared him recovered and issued a medical clearance in the first week of June.
Realiza stressed that a patient who has fully recovered is no longer contagious. She affirmed that the patient’s rashes had healed and that the individual had returned to work.
Previously, three individuals in Lapu-Lapu City, aged 20 to 35, exhibited symptoms similar to the viral infection, but confirmatory tests in 2024 returned negative results.
As of Tuesday, June 10, the CHO reported no suspected mpox cases being monitored in the city.
Despite the recovery and absence of new cases, the CHO urges the public to remain vigilant and informed about mpox.
“Don’t panic. Know the mode of transmission, it spreads through skin-to-skin contact, unlike Covid-19, which is airborne,” said Realiza in Cebuano.
Realiza advised the public to continue basic health practices such as frequent handwashing and avoiding crowded places.
She said seeking medical attention at the first sign of rashes is important. These can be reported through the CHO hotlines 340-8626 or 09556534096.
The CHO has activated a dedicated mpox task force under an executive order issued by outgoing Mayor and Congressman-elect Junard “Ahong” Chan. / DPC