Baguio City Health Services Office Activates Dedicated Team to Combat MPOX Threat

In response to recent announcements by Mayor Benjamin Magalong and City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, the Baguio City Health Services Office (CHSO) has mobilized a specialized team to address the growing concerns about MPOX. This initiative underscores the city’s proactive stance in ensuring public health and safety.

Focused Efforts on Prevention and Management

The newly activated health team is tasked with preventing, detecting, and managing MPOX cases within the city. Currently, their efforts include communication campaigns aimed at raising awareness, conducting contact tracing to mitigate further spread, and establishing comprehensive protocols for case management and transmission prevention.

Advisory for Public and Establishments

Dr. Brillantes has strongly advised the public to avoid close skin-to-skin contact—including kissing, hugging, and sexual activities—especially with individuals showing symptoms of MPOX. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of adhering to strict sanitation practices in various sectors:

• Hospitality Sector: Hotels, lodges, Airbnbs, inns, and transient houses are urged to enhance sanitation procedures, as MPOX can spread through contaminated items such as beddings and towels. Staff in these establishments are advised to wear protective gear, including masks, gloves, and long-sleeved clothing, when handling potentially infected materials.
• Food and Delivery Services: Food establishments must uphold stringent hygiene practices, while delivery personnel are encouraged to practice proper handwashing before and after handling food and money.
• Event Organizers: Organizers of public events are advised to implement preventive measures, including ensuring adequate sanitation facilities and crowd control to minimize risk.

Residents and tourists visiting crowded areas and events are encouraged to wear masks, long-sleeved clothing, and long pants, as well as carry hand sanitizers and practice frequent handwashing.

Preemptive Measures for Isolation and Mitigation

As part of its contingency plan, the CHSO is preparing to reactivate an isolation facility for patients who cannot isolate safely at home. This measure aims to prevent household transmission in less conducive living environments.

Furthermore, the CHSO is collaborating with the Cordillera Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council to develop additional preparedness and mitigation strategies.

Unified Call for Vigilance

The CHSO’s comprehensive approach reflects its commitment to safeguarding public health amid the MPOX threat. Dr. Brillantes calls on all sectors of society to remain vigilant and cooperative in adhering to these preventive measures.
Source: Baguio City Health Services Office