Ozamiz City in Misamis Occidental has reported its first confirmed case of mpox, according to a statement from Mayor Indy Oaminal released on Friday, June 20, 2025.
The patient voluntarily sought medical help at the Mayor Hilarion A. Ramiro Sr. Medical Center after experiencing symptoms and is currently isolated and recovering well, health authorities said.
The City Health Office promptly initiated contact tracing to contain any potential spread. Individuals who were in close contact with the patient are now under monitoring based on Department of Health (DOH) protocols.
Mayor Oaminal reassured the public, noting that the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine identified the virus strain as Clade II—a milder, self-limiting form of mpox. However, he emphasized that residents should not be complacent.
The public is urged to remain alert and report symptoms such as a painful rash, swollen lymph nodes, fever, headache, muscle aches, or back pain. Standard precautions include regular handwashing, mask-wearing in public, and avoiding direct skin contact with others.
“Even though this strain is less severe, vigilance is key. Please don’t delay visiting the nearest health facility if symptoms appear,” Oaminal said.
This case follows similar recent reports from other parts of the Philippines, including Capiz and Sarangani, although the DOH has maintained that the situation remains under control.