Davao City verifies 6 Mpox instances; mask-wearing not compulsory

Davao City Reports Six Confirmed Cases of Monkeypox as of May 2025

The City Health Office (CHO) in Davao City has confirmed six cases of the monkeypox virus, commonly known as mpox, as of May 2025. Four of these cases are currently active and stable, one patient has recovered, and one sadly passed away due to complications unrelated to mpox.

Dr. Sofia Corazon D. Zafra, the CHO's emerging and re-emerging infectious disease medical coordinator, confirmed that the active cases are being closely monitored, and their close contacts are under observation. Zafra stated, "They are stable and not in critical condition. We are continuing to monitor them," during a radio interview on Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on May 30, 2025.

Close contacts who tested negative for mpox will not be isolated or quarantined, according to Zafra, as per the guidelines provided by the Department of Health (DOH) in 2024. Instead, they will merely be monitored to ensure their health status remains unaffected.

Active cases will continue to be monitored daily, and no signs of the virus have been observed in their close contacts, according to Zafra. In order to eliminate the risk of transmission, she encouraged Dabawenyos—Davao City's residents—to practice minimum health protocols, such as washing hands thoroughly and maintaining a safe distance from those exhibiting mpox symptoms.

While face masks are part of the minimum health protocols, it has been clarified that they are not mandatory for the public as they are not a preventive measure against mpox. However, given the ongoing flu season, health officials still recommend wearing masks, particularly in enclosed spaces.

The CHO and DOH have not issued a mandate for the public to wear face masks. Previously, the Provinces of Davao del Sur and Davao de Oro required residents to wear masks due to the rising cases of mpox.

Monkeypox is an infectious disease caused by the mpox virus, with common symptoms including fever, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a gradually spreading rash. The virus prevalent in the Philippines belongs to Clade II, which is less deadly than Clade I, as confirmed by CHO.

Any individuals in Davao City experiencing symptoms of mpox are encouraged to seek medical attention at their nearest health center promptly.

In addition, Dr. Ricardo Audan, the medical center chief of the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), reported seven suspected mpox patients, with three confirmed cases based on testing at the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) in Manila. SPMC has four more patients awaiting confirmation and one repeat collection.

While the current cases in Davao City appear mild, health authorities are maintaining vigilance and monitoring the situation closely to prevent further transmission. Epidemiological surveillance is being conducted to identify and contain additional cases, as early detection and reporting are crucial for effective management and control of the pandemic.

The six confirmed cases of monkeypox in Davao City, Philippines, have highlighted the importance of maintaining West Philippine health, focusing on critical medical conditions such as mpox, cancer, and mental health.
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Globetrotters travelers should prioritize researching the mpox situation and mandates in their destination city and be aware of best practices for maintaining their health, such as sanitation, social distancing, and other minimized health protocols, thereby ensuring joyful and safe experiences throughout their vacation.