DAVAO CITY – The City Health Office has confirmed two cases of monkeypox (mpox) Clade II in Davao, with one patient reported to have died—though not due directly to mpox, according to the Department of Health (DOH).
Both individuals were immediately placed in isolation. The DOH clarified that the deceased patient was in a severely immunocompromised state and “likely died from non-mpox complications.”
Contact tracing and surveillance are currently underway. “All close contacts are being monitored, and response protocols are in full effect,” said DOH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo. He also assured the public that there is no increased risk compared to previous months.
Public Safety Measures Advised
Health officials urge residents to practice the following precautions:
- Avoid close or intimate contact with suspected patients (e.g. kissing, hugging, sex).
- Wash hands frequently or use alcohol-based sanitizers.
- Disinfect objects and surfaces used by infected individuals.
- Avoid contact with animals, particularly mammals that may carry the virus.
Mpox symptoms include rash or mucosal lesions lasting 2–4 weeks, along with fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, and back pain.
Davao residents with symptoms should immediately contact the City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit at 09495011457 or visit the nearest healthcare facility.