Davao de Oro Confirms 3 Mpox Cases

THE Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (Pesu) of Davao de Oro has confirmed three cases of Mpox in the province as of May 28, 2025. According to health officials, two of the patients have fully recovered, while one remains a suspected case currently under close observation.

In Maco, two individuals were monitored, including one confirmed case who has since recovered. In Nabunturan, health authorities are closely watching a suspected case. All affected individuals, along with their identified close contacts, are in isolation as health workers continue their monitoring and assessment.

The Department of Health–Davao Region (DOH-Davao) and local health units are urging residents to follow health protocols strictly to reduce the risk of transmission. Recommended safety measures include frequent hand washing with soap and water, avoiding direct contact with symptomatic individuals, wearing face masks in public places, and refraining from sharing personal items.

Surveillance operations remain active across all provinces in the region, with the DOH working in coordination with local government units to ensure swift identification and management of potential cases.

In Davao Oriental, the Provincial Health Office has issued a public health advisory urging residents to adhere to minimum health protocols despite having no reported Mpox cases in the province. 

Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Reden V. Bersaldo emphasized the importance of preventive practices, such as maintaining personal hygiene, wearing a facemask, surface disinfection, physical distancing, and monitoring for possible symptoms. 

He also encouraged the public to rely on credible sources for information and to refrain from spreading misinformation that could cause unnecessary panic.

Meanwhile, Davao del Sur has implemented a mandatory face mask policy in public areas starting May 29, as a proactive measure to safeguard communities from potential virus transmission. Authorities there are calling for public cooperation as part of a broader regional effort to prevent an outbreak.

To recall, Davao City recorded two Mpox cases earlier in April, based on data from the Department of Health – Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit. Both patients were isolated at the Southern Philippines Medical Center. One of them, who was severely immunocompromised, later died due to unrelated complications.

Mpox is a viral disease that spreads mainly through close, skin-to-skin contact with infected individuals, their bodily fluids, or contaminated materials. 

Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash that typically appears on the face, hands, or feet. While generally self-limiting, the illness can pose serious risks in close-contact settings or among individuals with weak immune systems.

Health officials continue to urge the public to remain vigilant, observe preventive measures, and seek prompt medical consultation if Mpox symptoms arise. Community awareness and cooperation, they emphasize, remain crucial in curbing the spread of the virus.