28/04/2025
PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY 📢
Public Awareness and Preventive Measures Against MPOX (Monkeypox)
The Ministry of Health - BARMM is providing information and updates to all our Bangsamoro constituents that, according to the World Health Organization, MPOX, previously known as monkeypox, is a contagious disease caused by the monkeypox virus, a species of the genus Orthopoxvirus. There are two distinct clades of the virus: clade I (with subclades la and Ib) and clade II (with subclades Ila and IIb). A global outbreak of clade IIb began in 2022 and continues to this day, including in some African countries.
Why does this matter for BARMM?
- Although there are currently no confirmed cases in the Bangsamoro region, nearby regions have reported cases. It is important to remain informed and take preventive measures to protect our families and the community.
Some of the symptoms of MPOX:
1. Fever and chills;
2. Headache and muscle pain;
3. Fatigue or weakness;
4. Swollen lymph nodes; and
5. Rashes or lesions that start as flat spots and become fluid-filled (often appearing on the face, hands, or ge****ls).
MPOX spreads through:
1. Close skin-to-skin contact with an infected person;
2. Contact with items like clothing, bedding, or towels used by someone infected;
3. Respiratory droplets during close, face-to-face interaction.
Preventive Measures To help prevent the spread of MPOX in the Bangsamoro region, please follow these health reminders:
1. Avoid close contact with anyone who has symptoms of MPOX;
2. Do not share personal items like towels, clothes, or utensils;
3. Regularly wash hands with soap and clean water;
4. Use face mask in crowded areas or if someone is ill within your household; and
5. Keep your home and surroundings clean.