The Provincial Government of Bulacan (PGB), through its Provincial Health Office – Public Health, has intensified efforts to prevent the spread of Monkeypox (Mpox) through proactive and strategic interventions, even before any confirmed cases emerged in the province.

Governor Daniel Fernando announced on Thursday, June 19, that he had directed all city and municipal mayors, along with barangay captains, to prepare Temporary Treatment and Monitoring Facilities (TTMFs), ensure proper sanitation practices in private establishments, and lead public information campaigns to combat misinformation.

Hospitals were reminded to follow surge capacity protocols, including ensuring the readiness of isolation rooms and beds for potential Mpox cases.

All local health offices were also instructed to report suspected cases immediately through the Event-based Surveillance and Response Information System.

Dedicated hotlines were set up in coordination with local health units to streamline patient referrals and facilitate timely transfer to appropriate isolation or treatment centers.

Meanwhile, two confirmed Mpox cases were reported in the City of San Jose del Monte. According to the City Health Office, both patients have fully recovered. 

Health authorities confirmed that the cases involved the Clade II strain — a milder variant of the Mpox virus. 

The two cases were not connected, and all identified close contacts remained asymptomatic and completed the required isolation protocols.

The PGB clarified that there are no plans to impose lockdowns in the province, despite circulating rumors. 

Fernando assured the public that the local government is taking all necessary actions to keep Bulakenyos safe.

“Wala po tayong dapat ikabahala. Ginagawa po ng ating Pamahalaang Panlalawigan ang lahat ng mga aksiyon na kinakailangan upang mapanatiling ligtas ang mga Bulakenyomula sa banta ng Mpox. Kaya naman doble ingat po ang ating hiling sa bawat isa upang tayo ay makaiwas mula sa sakit at hindi maging posibleng paraan ng pagkalat nito (There is no need for alarm. The Provincial Government is taking all necessary actions to ensure the safety of Bulakenyos from the threat of Mpox. That’s why we urge everyone to exercise extra caution to avoid contracting the disease and to prevent becoming a possible source of its spread), he said.

According to the Department of Health (DOH), common Mpox symptoms include skin rashes or lesions, fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, body pain, headache, and low energy. 

Health experts continue to advise the public to maintain good hygiene, regularly disinfect surroundings, avoid skin-to-skin contact, wash hands frequently, and immediately consult the nearest health center if symptoms occur.