Less than a week after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a global public health emergency, the Philippines reported its first mpox (monkeypox) case of the year on Monday, Aug. 19, bringing the country’s total to 10 laboratory-confirmed cases overall.
Now that the recent outbreak has resurged, it’s essential to understand how to protect ourselves and prevent the spread of the virus. To address this, Mayo Clinic shared some tips on how to prevent infection with or the spread of the mpox virus, here are what we can do:
Avoid close contact. Know the symptoms of mpox. Make sure to clear yourself from individuals who are exhibiting a rash that resembles mpox.
Do not expose yourself to contaminated materials. Refrain from touching clothing, sheets, blankets, or other items that may have come into contact with an infected person or animal.
Isolate from infected individuals. Ensure that you don’t expose yourself more to people diagnosed with mpox to prevent transmission.
Practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly with soap and water after any interaction with an infected person or animal, even if not exposed. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoid potential carriers. Stay away from animals that may carry the virus.
Consider vaccination. Some smallpox vaccines, such as ACAM2000 and Jynneos, can protect mpox, as both diseases are caused by related viruses. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently does not advise widespread vaccination against mpox for the general public at this time.
Follow healthcare guidance. Healthcare professionals may recommend vaccination for individuals who have been exposed to mpox, as well as for those at higher risk of exposure, such as laboratory workers.
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