Caraga Region: Local government units (LGUs) and medical facilities across the Caraga Region have proactively implemented protective measures to safeguard residents against potential monkeypox (mpox) infection. As of posting time, no confirmed mpox cases have been reported in the region. However, two suspected cases in Dinagat Islands are currently awaiting confirmation from laboratory tests.

According to Philippines News Agency, amidst this situation, Dinagat Islands Governor Nilo Demerey Jr. issued Executive Order No. 05-04 on Thursday, a copy of which was released to the media in the afternoon. The order provides comprehensive guidelines for the prevention, detection, isolation, and management of mpox infection within the province. Under the executive order, residents of the island province are strongly urged to follow minimum precautions, including avoiding close skin-to-skin contact, which specifically encompasses sexual contact, kissing, hugging, and cuddling with individuals suspected of having or confirmed with mpox. Residents are also advised to practice proper hand hygiene diligently, avoid contact with animals-particularly mammals that may carry the virus-and thoroughly clean commonly touched objects and surfaces.

‘All employees at the provincial capitol, including clients, tourists, and visitors, are also required to wear face masks within the premises,’ Demerey said. In Agusan del Norte, the provincial hospital issued a memorandum on Wednesday, making the wearing of face masks mandatory within its premises as a proactive measure to prevent the spread of mpox disease. For its part, the Department of Health in Caraga (DOH-13) has urged residents to actively seek information about mpox, especially concerning how the disease is transmitted. ‘The residents need to know the symptoms of the disease and the measures for preventing its spread,’ DOH-13 said.