Mpox in the Philippines

One of our biggest concerns as parents is keeping our children safe and healthy—especially with the growing number of illnesses going around these days. Just recently, I came across reports about a rise in cases of Mpox in the Philippines, particularly in parts of Mindanao, with over a dozen cases recorded this month alone.

Finding out about confirmed cases of Mpox in the Philippines is alarming for parents. To help us better understand and protect our loved ones from this emerging health threat, here is a quick guide on what Mpox is and what we can do to prevent it.

What is Mpox?

Mpox—previously called monkeypox—is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus. According to the World Health Organization, there are two major types (called clades), and the strain currently responsible for the global outbreak since 2022 is clade IIb.

Now, what does Mpox look like? One of the most noticeable symptoms is a skin rash or sores (also called lesions), usually on the face, hands, or other parts of the body. These can last from 2 to 4 weeks.

Other symptoms include:

Fever
Headache
Muscle aches and back pain
Low energy
Swollen lymph nodes

It spreads through close contact with someone who has Mpox, touching items or surfaces contaminated by the virus, or contact with infected animals. It can even be passed from a pregnant mother to her baby.

There’s no specific treatment yet, but most people recover with supportive care—that means managing the symptoms like pain and fever, staying hydrated, eating well, and taking extra care of the skin.

How to Prevent Mpox in the Philippines

The good news is that the same basic habits we teach our kids to avoid colds and flu can help against Mpox too. These include:

Washing hands thoroughly and often (especially after coming home or using the toilet)
Avoiding close contact with anyone showing symptoms
Wearing masks in crowded places
Keeping a safe distance from people or animals that seem sick

It’s simple, but powerful. As parents, we can teach these steps in small, everyday moments—like before meals or after playtime.

Mpox Vaccine in the Philippines

You may be wondering: “Is there a vaccine for Mpox?” Yes, there is. But here in the Philippines, the Mpox vaccine isn’t legally available yet. The Department of Health already warned the public in September 2024 not to get the vaccine from unauthorized sellers or sources.

So for now, our best defense is still prevention—good hygiene, healthy habits, and being mindful of our family’s activities and surroundings.

If you think someone in your household may have been exposed or is showing symptoms, don’t contribute to the surging cases of Mpox in the Philippines—isolate immediately, avoid gatherings, and contact a doctor for proper guidance.

We can’t control everything, but we can stay informed and proactive. Let’s help one another by sharing knowledge and practicing safety, one small habit at a time. Stay safe, fellow moms and dads! 💛