IN anticipation of an increase in mpox cases, the Department of Health (DOH) is planning to set up an online consultation system for suspected cases in coordination with the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS).
The DOH on Friday said dermatologists are the most likely medical professionals who will initially handle mpox cases as they are “more likely to see suspect mpox cases given the clear skin symptoms of the disease.”
Mpox is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus. Common symptoms are skin rash or mucosal lesions, which can last from two to four weeks, accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.
Mpox can be transmitted to humans through physical contact with someone who is infectious, with contaminated materials, or with infected animals.
Health Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said the planned virtual consultation will form part of the department’s preparations for a national response system for mpox.
“With the help of experts from the Philippine Dermatological Society, Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, and Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines, we are looking to make mpox screening, testing, and referral more accessible,” said Domingo.
