The Department of Health Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH-WVCHD) is calling on government agencies and institutions in the region to strengthen precautionary practices against the potential spread of monkeypox (mpox).
During the Regional Inter-Agency Task Force on Infectious Diseases (RIATF-ID) held via Webex, medical doctor Bea Camille Natalaray, head of the DOH-WVCHD Infectious Disease Cluster, emphasized the importance of sustained vigilance and proactive preventive measures in work settings and public spaces.
“Sa aton nga mga government agencies, we encourage you to practice ang aton nga prevention in our workplaces and sa mga high-risk establishments, especially ang naga-receive everyday sang mga clients,” Natalaray underscored.
She urged member agencies to adopt and enforce simple yet effective health protocols, including the regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and shared spaces, particularly high-touch points or areas like lounge and reception areas, countertops, door handles, and restrooms.
She also recommended the installation and maintenance of touch-free sanitizing stations at strategic points, especially in areas with high foot traffic, such as entrances and lobbies of workplaces.
“Also, kun may ara kita clients sa aton offices, pwede gid ka online appointment to reduce the need for contact with shared surfaces or the use of QR codes,” Natalaray added.
She further advised the utilization of dedicated devices like desktop computers to individual employees.
Meanwhile, to provide an administrative framework among workplaces, Natalaray suggested that agencies and offices update or develop and enforce policies that outline procedures on dealing with mpox exposure, including isolation, reporting, and communication protocols.
The DOH-WVCHD continues to monitor cases and advocates for a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach in addressing emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases such as mpox.
“Sa aton nga mga point of entry, like airports and seaports, padayon gihapon ang aton nga pag-monitor sa aton nga mga incoming travelers from other countries because we want to prevent the entry of Clade I [of mpox], which is with the higher risk of severe disease,” Natalaray stressed noting that cases reported in the country so far are Clade II or with milder symptoms.
The regional health office also reminded the public to remain informed, practice good hygiene, and seek medical attention for symptoms such as rashes, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle aches, especially if they have had close and intimate contact with suspected or confirmed cases. (PIA-6)