Mpox Hits Lapu-Lapu City:City Prepares to Fight Back
Ahong Chan to establish a special unit targeting mpox virus
After reports of suspected mpox cases, Lapu-Lapu City is gearing up to establish a dedicated task force to tackle the potential outbreak within its borders. The city's outgoing mayor, Junard "Ahong" Chan, announced the formation of a joint task force comprising local agencies, focusing on residents exhibiting symptoms like skin rashes, sore throat, and muscle pains.
The task force will primarily consist of members from the City Health Office, district hospital staff, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office. Barangay health workers will play a crucial role in monitoring individuals displaying symptoms in rural communities.
Recalling the challenges faced during the Covid-19 pandemic, Chan emphasized the collective community efforts that helped the city weather the storm. An executive order will be signed to formalize the creation of this task force.
A suspected case involving a 27-year-old male resident was reported by the City Health Office (CHO), who noted symptoms such as fever, rashes, and muscle pains with no travel history. As of press time, the confirmatory test results are yet to be released. Three other residents, aged 20-35, presented similar symptoms, but their tests came back negative. Individuals exhibiting such symptoms are advised to isolate themselves and contact the city's dedicated hotlines: 340-8626 and 0955-653-4096.
The city also pledges to provide free medication and food supplies to those undergoing home quarantine due to the infection. Chan instructed that suspect cases be swabbed to determine if they are positive or not, assuring prompt action to contain the spread.
Although specific details about the Lapu-Lapu City Mpox Task Force are scarce, a general overview of such a task force can offer insights:
- Task Force Composition: Health professionals, local government officials, community leaders, and representatives from relevant departments form the core of a task force focused on managing a health crisis like mpox.
- Barangay Health Workers Roles: Health education, surveillance, and support are the primary responsibilities of barangay health workers. They educate the public, monitor and report suspected cases, and provide essential resources to affected individuals and communities.
- Response to Suspected Cases: A task force identifies, reports, isolates, tests, conducts contact tracing, and provides treatments and support to suspected and confirmed cases to prevent further spread.
For more specific details about the Lapu-Lapu City Mpox Task Force, it's recommended to consult local health authorities or official city announcements. Stay informed and stay safe!
- The government of Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, is forming a task force to manage the potential outbreak of mpox, utilizing members from the City Health Office, district hospital staff, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office, among others.
- In light of the ongoing mpox situation, the Lapu-Lapu City Mpox Task Force emphasizes the importance of reporting and isolating individuals showing symptoms like fever, rashes, and muscle pains, especially those without a travel history, for the swift administration of confirmatory tests and prompt treatment.
- To ensure the well-being of residents affected by mpox, the Lapu-Lapu City Mpox Task Force pledges to provide free medication and food supplies to those undergoing home quarantine, demonstrating a commitment to health and wellness during this health crisis.
