ROXAS CITY — The Capiz Provincial Government has confirmed its first case of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox), based on official test results from the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM).
In a statement released by Dr. Ramon Alex T. Nolasco, Provincial Health Officer II, Capiz initially reported seven suspected cases on June 17. Two of these underwent Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing, with one result turning out positive and the other negative. The results were transmitted through the Department of Health – Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH-WV CHD).
The confirmed case is now under home isolation and being closely monitored by the local health office. Health authorities reported that the patient’s skin lesions are nearly healed, and all identified close contacts have been traced, assessed, and are under observation.
The Provincial Health Office has since intensified its surveillance, monitoring, and containment efforts in coordination with 17 Local Health Offices (LHOs), five government hospitals, and Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams (BHERTs) across Capiz.
The public is advised to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative. Residents are strongly reminded to adhere to the Minimum Public Health Standards (MPHS), which include:
- Regular and proper hand hygiene
- Wearing face masks in enclosed or crowded spaces
- Observing proper cough and sneeze etiquette
- Avoiding close contact with individuals showing symptoms such as fever, rashes, or swollen lymph nodes
- Seeking immediate medical consultation when symptoms appear
Governor Fredenil H. Castro reassured Capiznons of the government’s continued commitment to protecting public health and safety.
All official updates and advisories will be released through the CPG Communication Group and the Provincial Health Office’s official communication platforms.
