• CHERYL G. CRUZ
Negros Oriental Governor Chaco Sagarbarria has signed an executive order June 2, creating the Mpox Task Force to effectively prevent and control the spread of the contagious disease in the province.
Section 3 of EO 6-2025 calls on residents and visitors in the province to refrain from unnecessary gatherings in crowded places; avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms of mpox, like fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, etc.; report suspected cases immediately to the nearest health facility or barangay health station; practice good personal hygiene, including frequent handwashing; and cooperate with health authorities in contact tracing and other preventive measures.
Sagarbarria also tasked all 25 city and municipal mayors to activate their respective local health emergency response teams, conduct community awareness campaigns on mpox prevention, implement active surveillance and reporting of suspected cases, ensure that local health facilities are prepared to handle mpox cases, and coordinate closely with the task force for timely reporting and response.
“The provincial government of Negros Oriental recognizes the critical role of inter-agency coordination and public participation in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. The monkeypox virus has been reported in several parts of the country, posing a significant threat to public health and safety,” the EO said.
It added that there is an urgent need to strengthen the province’s preparedness and response mechanisms to ensure timely detection, isolation, treatment, and containment of suspected and confirmed mpox cases.
The task force is composed of key officials, including the governor, vice-governor, provincial health, PDRRMO, veterinary, and social welfare directors, and other relevant agencies, to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive response, the Capitol said, adding that its functions include monitoring, education campaigns, health protocols, and resource allocation to mitigate the impact of mpox. | CGC
