CEBU CITY – Following the confirmation of the first case of monkeypox in the country, the Department of Health-Central Visayas (DOH-Region 7) assured the public that it has activated and intensified its surveillance activity against the viral disease.

So far, Central Visayas remains free of monkeypox, the DOH-Region 7 said.
While the DOH-Region 7 is taking the necessary steps to prevent the spread of the disease, Bernadas urged the public to observe precautionary measures to avoid monkeypox.
Bernadas said that health protocols that have been set to prevent Covid-19 are the same measures that the public can observe to avoid contracting monkeypox.
“Since monkeypox is transmitted via close contact with the skin lesion and fluid from the vesicles, physical distancing, avoiding crowded places, and regular handwashing are effective,” said Bernadas.
Bernadas added that it would also be best for those who are feeling sick to stay at home, especially those who just travelled from foreign places with confirmed cases of monkeypox.
Those who manifest symptoms of monkeypox should seek medical help right away. “Further, get the appropriate information from reliable sources for your guidance,” Bernadas said.
Health experts said among the first symptoms of monkeypox are fever, headaches, muscle pain, and back pain.
Bernadas has instructed health facilities to immediately attend to possible cases of monkeypox for immediate isolation and treatment.