Zamboanga City — May 27, 2025 — In a swift response to the confirmed case of Mpox in neighboring Zamboanga Sibugay, Mayor John Dalipe convened an emergency meeting of the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (ZCDRRMC) on Tuesday afternoon to boost the city’s preparedness and response measures against the emerging viral threat.
The meeting, attended by key officials and health personnel, focused on updates and protocols to prevent a possible local transmission of Mpox. City Health Officer Dr. Dulce Miravite presented the current surveillance efforts, response strategies, and mitigation plans to be activated should a case be detected in Zamboanga City.
Among the measures discussed were preventive steps to be implemented across workplaces, including limited access to high-risk areas, installation of sanitizing stations at entrances, exits, and work areas, promotion of frequent hand hygiene, and regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces.
In the event of an outbreak, Dr. Miravite said the City Health Office (CHO) will implement a multi-pronged response involving surveillance, case finding, contact-tracing, case management, infection prevention and control, risk communication, and community engagement. She also emphasized the need to prepare for safe and dignified burials, should they be required.
Dr. Miravite noted that most of the preventive protocols mirror those used during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as wearing face masks, physical distancing, and a 21-day self-isolation period for infected individuals. Border control measures may also be imposed, especially along the eastern side of the city that shares a boundary with Zamboanga Sibugay.
Currently, the CHO is closely monitoring suspected Mpox cases in at least three barangays. Contact-tracing efforts are underway, along with intensified community awareness campaigns and health interventions.
Dr. Miravite clarified that Mpox is primarily transmitted through close intimate contact, including sexual activity, kissing, hugging, and skin-to-skin interaction with infected individuals. Transmission may also occur via contaminated materials, such as clothing and beddings used by an infected person.
Mayor Dalipe urged the public to remain calm but vigilant, and to cooperate fully with health authorities. He emphasized that the city government is taking proactive steps to safeguard public health and prevent a potential outbreak.
As health officials continue to monitor the situation, residents are encouraged to practice proper hygiene, report any symptoms immediately, and stay informed through official channels.