• CHERYL G. CRUZ
Safety measures are being pushed in points of entry to Bacolod City, particularly at Bredco and Banago ports and the Bacolod-Silay Airport as one way to prevent the spread of mpox, Mayor Alfredo Benitez said.
Benitez said in a press conference June 2 that since fever is one of the symptoms of this infectious disease, temperature-based screening could be conducted by personnel who will be assigned to these points of entry.
This is aside from visual inspection since one typical symptom of mpox is the presence of skin rash or mucosal lesion, which may persist for two to four weeks.
But Benitez said doctors don’t see the need for mandatory masking, even though direct transmission could occur via respiratory droplets, such as during talking, coughing, or sneezing.
The Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (PSMID) said in a statement June 2 that the predominant mode of transmission of mpox is prolonged skin-to-skin contact with persons infected with the virus. “This includes close interactions, such as kissing, sexual contact, and hugging with intimate partners and household members.”
“Mpox is not known to be transmitted by the airborne route, for example, through the air across rooms, marketplaces, offices, and even inside planes. Hence, compulsory masking in these areas or within the broader community is not necessary,” the PSMID explained.
Still, the Department of Health urged the public to remain vigilant and strictly observe preventive measures since mpox is contagious.
These include avoiding skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that could be mpox, not sharing personal items like towels or beddings, washing or sanitizing hands regularly, especially before eating or touching the face, and immediately consulting healthcare providers once symptoms appear.
“Mpox can spread as soon as symptoms appear, such as rashes, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Early consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to protect yourself and those around you,” the DOH said in an advisory.
Workplaces and commercial establishments are also urged to implement preventive measures, including provision of sanitizers, regular disinfecting of shared equipment and surfaces, and replacing towels and linens after every use.
Bacolod and Negros Occidental remained mpox-free, as of June 2, health authorities said, even as Iloilo City already logged six cases, with four laboratory-confirmed infections and two suspected, pending the release of confirmatory test results from the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine. | CGC
