Philippines Reports First Mpox Case of the Year
- 33-year-old male patient in Manila experienced fever and skin rash.
- Detection of new form of the virus triggered global concern.
- Strain of the disease not yet determined.
MANILA—The Philippines has confirmed its first case of mpox, previously known as monkeypox, for the year, as health officials monitor a global outbreak. The Department of Health (DOH) announced on Monday that a 33-year-old Filipino man, who has no recent travel history, tested positive for the virus. This case comes shortly after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a global public health emergency, highlighting concerns over a new, potentially more deadly strain of the virus. The patient, who began showing symptoms over a week ago, experienced fever followed by a distinct rash. The DOH is currently awaiting test results to determine whether the infection is linked to Clade Ib, the newer variant that has been driving a surge in cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Health Secretary Teddy Herbosa emphasized the importance of public awareness, stating, “The mpox virus is among us. This is a warning to everybody.” In addition to the Philippines, Sweden recently reported its first case of the new strain, raising fears of wider transmission outside Africa. Pakistan also confirmed a case involving a patient returning from the Gulf region, although the strain remains unidentified. The Philippines has now recorded a total of ten laboratory-confirmed mpox cases since the first was detected in July 2022, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and public health measures.