Philippines reports first monkeypox case, traces 10 close contacts

MANILA (Reuters) – The Philippines has reported its first case of the monkeypox virus, detected in a citizen who returned from overseas earlier this month, a well being ministry official mentioned on Friday.

The 31-year-old had recovered however was isolating at dwelling, whereas 10 folks recognized as shut contacts together with three from the affected person’s family had been ordered to quarantine, mentioned Division of Well being Undersecretary Beverly Ho.

The particular person had beforehand travelled to international locations with documented monkeypox circumstances, mentioned Ho, with out elaborating.

Round 70 international locations the place monkeypox is just not endemic have reported outbreaks of the viral illness as confirmed circumstances crossed 20,300 and the World Well being Group declared the outbreak a world well being emergency.

The Philippine case was confirmed constructive on Thursday and the shut contacts had not proven any signs, Ho mentioned.

Transmission can happen by way of contact with pores and skin lesions brought on by the virus, in addition to bodily fluids, massive respiratory droplets and contaminated bedding.

“Our (public well being surveillance) programs are in place. However all of us must work collectively. We’d like additionally the general public to be vigilant,” Ho instructed a briefing.

“Primarily based on what we learn about monkeypox…there’s a very clear have to be extra cautious about who we work together with, significantly sexual, intimate contact.”

The well being ministry requires folks uncovered to monkeypox circumstances to quarantine for 14 to 21 days.

The president’s press secretary mentioned whereas monkeypox was not usually deadly, the speedy unfold of the virus was of concern.

“(President Ferdinand Marcos’) major concern is to get the knowledge out so that individuals would bear in mind,” mentioned Trixie Cruz-Angeles.

(Reporting by Enrico Dela Cruz; Enhancing by Ed Davies)