CEBU CITY — The Department of Health in the Negros Island Region (DOH-NIR) has confirmed that two individuals from Siquijor have died due to glanders, a rare zoonotic disease transmitted to humans through animals like goats, horses, and carabaos.

The deceased, both male, were admitted to a hospital in Negros Oriental and had underlying health conditions, including hypertension and diabetes.

According to DOH-NIR Director Dr. Nikka Hao, the situation is being addressed through the activation of the NIR One Health Task Force to ensure coordinated response efforts.

She added that glanders is a recognized disease with established treatments and preventive measures readily available. 

Hao stated, “Glanders is rarely passed from human to human.” 

The Department of Health (DOH) advises the public to avoid direct contact with animals and refrain from consuming meat or meat products from sick animals.

In response, DOH-NIR is actively conducting surveillance, contact tracing, and community-based health education. Medical teams are visiting communities to monitor for early symptoms, while the Department of Agriculture leads efforts in animal surveillance and testing.

Common symptoms of glanders include fever, coughing, and body aches.

• MONKEYPOX IN BOHOL

Meanwhile, in Bohol, the Provincial Health Office has issued an advisory alerting all local health units about confirmed monkeypox cases in other provinces.

“While the same has not been noted in our province, all reporting units are still requested to intensify the information, education communication campaign in your designated area regarding the prevention and control of monkeypox among individuals,” Dr. Fruserma Mary Uy, officer-in-charge of the Provincial Health Office stated. 

Uy further stated, “Let’s protect ourselves and our community. Stay home and avoid crowded places. Monkeypox is preventable and manageable with timely action.” 

The Department of Health in Central Visayas has not yet released an official statement regarding monkeypox.