CEBU CITY – While there is no confirmed case of monkeypox in Bohol yet, Gov. Aris Aumentado is not taking any chances as he ordered the creation of a task force to help prevent the spread of the virus in the province.
BOHOL Gov. Aris Aumentado presides over a meeting where measures to prevent the spread of monkeypox in the province were discussed. (Facebook)
Aumentado issued Executive Order No. 28 that created the Bohol Provincial Monkeypox Task Force.
Aumentado on Thursday, May 29, presided over a meeting with key officials and agencies to map out immediate measures in anticipation of potential monkeypox cases.
“We have not recorded any monkeypox case yet in the province but we are closely monitoring the situation through our Provincial Health Office (PHO),” Aumentado said.
The task force was formed after a confirmed case of monkeypox was recorded in Talisay City, Cebu.
It is composed of provincial officials Provincial Administrator Asteria Caberte, Chief of Staff Atty. Filipina Piollo, Provincial Legal Officer Atty. Handel Lagunay, PHO OIC Dr. Fruserma Mary Uy, PDRRMO head Anthony Damalerio, and PGSO head Engr. Eustaquio Caliao.
During the meeting, the PHO instructed the province’s rural health units, hospitals, and local facilities to intensify community-based information campaigns focusing on early detection, isolation, and prompt reporting of symptoms that may be linked to monkeypox.
Aumentado called for vigilance and asked the people to avoid unnecessary gatherings to limit exposure.
“Let us continue to maintain the cleanliness of our environment and our health,” he said. “If you have a family member experiencing abnormal health conditions and itchy skin or rashes, consult our health experts for early detection.”
The province will coordinate with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to prevent possible price manipulation or profiteering, especially for medical supplies like masks and sanitizers.