The Philippines has reported its first mpox case of 2024, according to Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa. The patient, a 33-year-old Filipino male with no international travel history, is currently recovering in hospital. This case brings the total number of laboratory-confirmed mpox infections in the country to 10 since July 2022.
Herbosa confirmed that the detected case is of the mild Clade 2 variant, stating, "The mpox we found was the original variety and probably it could have been circulating in our community." This revelation comes amidst growing global concern over the disease.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, was first discovered in 1958 in a colony of research monkeys. The first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since then, the virus has been primarily endemic in parts of Africa, particularly in tropical rainforest regions.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared mpox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years. This decision was prompted by an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo that has spread to neighboring countries.
Mpox belongs to the same family (Poxviridae) as the virus that causes smallpox. It typically leads to flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions. While generally less severe than smallpox and rarely fatal, certain groups are at higher risk of complications. These include children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV.
It's important to note that mpox can be transmitted from animals to humans through close contact with infected animals. The virus can also survive on surfaces and objects for extended periods, making fomite transmission possible.
The incubation period for mpox usually ranges from 6 to 13 days but can extend up to 21 days. Mpox lesions typically progress through four stages: macular, papular, vesicular, and pustular.
While the smallpox vaccine is about 85% effective in preventing mpox, antiviral drugs developed for smallpox may be effective in treating severe cases. As research continues, health authorities worldwide remain vigilant in monitoring and managing the spread of this disease.
"The mpox we found was the original variety and probably it could have been circulating in our community."
As the Philippines addresses this latest case, it's crucial for the public to stay informed and follow health guidelines to prevent further spread of the virus.