DAVAO CITY, Philippines – The Department of Health-Davao Region (DOH-Davao) has confirmed eight cases of mpox in Region 11, with six of these located in Davao City. Despite the confirmed infections, DOH-Davao emphasized there is no need for a face mask mandate or a lockdown, underscoring that mpox primarily spreads through skin-to-skin contact.

During the Kapehan sa Dabaw forum on Monday, June 2, Dr. David A. Mendoza, assistant regional director of DOH-Davao, confirmed the eight regional cases. He noted that while there are “so many suspects,” only eight have been confirmed so far. The exact locations of two of the non-Davao City cases are still being verified. One patient had traveled outside Davao, but the rest had no travel history or contact with known mpox cases.

Dr. Mendoza assured the public that the confirmed cases are “not alarming.” All patients have been treated and are currently isolated in hospitals. He stressed that mandatory face masks are not required as mpox is not a respiratory or airborne virus and is not as deadly as Covid-19. Mpox spreads mainly through close, skin-to-skin contact and prolonged exposure.

While mask-wearing remains a personal choice, especially for those with flu-like symptoms, DOH-Davao advises avoiding sharing personal items like towels, blankets, pillows, and bed sheets. Practicing proper handwashing, using 70% alcohol-based sanitizers, and staying informed are also crucial preventive measures. Isolation for mpox patients does not require strict separation, simply avoiding shared frequently touched items.

DOH-accredited hospitals in the region are prepared to admit mpox patients, with fast lanes already in place. Dr. Mendoza explained that mpox, like other viruses, tends to be self-limiting, and there is no specific treatment. He noted that the cases in the Philippines belong to Clade II, which has a mortality rate of less than one percent, unlike the more deadly Clade I.

Establishments involving skin-to-skin contact, such as salons, barbershops, gyms, and massage parlors, are urged to strictly follow public health standards, including providing handwashing facilities and regularly disinfecting high-touch areas. Businesses should also screen workers and customers for symptoms before services. However, there is no need to limit passengers in public utility vehicles as mpox requires prolonged contact to spread.

Previously, as of May 2025, the Davao City Health Office (CHO) had confirmed six mpox cases, with four active but stable, one recovered, and one death attributed to unrelated complications. The Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) had also been monitoring suspected patients, with seven of 14 mpox patients treated since April 10, 2025, already discharged.

Despite the confirmed cases, tourism officials in Davao have affirmed that major tourism activities, including the upcoming Duaw Davao Festival from June 5 to June 29, will proceed. Department of Tourism Davao regional director Tanya Rabat Tan stated that advisories from the DOH are being shared with tourism stakeholders, particularly accommodation providers, to ensure precautions and health protocols are practiced. The City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) also emphasized continuous reminders for visitors and participants to maintain health standards, including handwashing.