Negros Oriental Creates Task Force to Prevent Mpox Entry 

The Negros Oriental provincial government has taken proactive measures to prevent the entry and spread of monkeypox (Mpox) in the province. Governor Manuel Sagarbarria issued an executive order on June 2, 2025, officially establishing the Negros Oriental Mpox Task Force.

Although no confirmed cases have been reported in Negros Oriental, the presence of suspected cases in nearby Cebu and Negros Occidental has prompted local officials to strengthen preparedness and response mechanisms.

Why Negros Oriental Is Taking Action

Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, is a contagious disease that spreads through close contact with infected individuals, contaminated materials, or animals.

✔ Suspected cases in neighboring provinces – Cebu and Negros Occidental have reported potential Mpox infections, raising concerns about regional transmission.
✔ Public health risk – The virus can cause fever, rashes, and painful skin lesions, lasting two to four weeks.
✔ Preventive measures are crucial – Early detection and community awareness can stop the virus from spreading.

Key Functions of the Mpox Task Force

The Negros Oriental Mpox Task Force is composed of key provincial officials, including the governor, vice governor, provincial health officer, and local government representatives.

The Task Force’s Responsibilities

🏥 Monitoring & Surveillance – Tracking potential Mpox cases and ensuring timely reporting.
📢 Public Awareness Campaigns – Educating communities on Mpox symptoms, prevention, and treatment.
🚑 Health Protocol Implementation – Strengthening infection control measures in hospitals and public spaces.
💡 Resource Allocation – Ensuring adequate medical supplies, isolation facilities, and trained personnel.

Local Government Actions

Governor Sagarbarria has directed all city and municipal mayors to activate health emergency response teams, conduct community awareness campaigns, and implement active surveillance.

What Local Governments Are Doing

✅ Barangay Health Workers Mobilized – Conducting door-to-door education on Mpox prevention.
✅ Hospital Preparedness – Ensuring local health facilities are equipped to handle suspected cases.
✅ Public Health Protocols Enforced – Encouraging proper hygiene, social distancing, and early reporting.

What Residents Can Do to Prevent Mpox

✔ Avoid close contact – Limit skin-to-skin interactions with individuals showing Mpox symptoms.
✔ Practice good hygiene – Regular handwashing and disinfection reduce the risk of infection.
✔ Report suspected cases – Inform local health authorities if symptoms appear.

The Negros Oriental Mpox Task Force is a critical step in preventing the spread of monkeypox in the province. By strengthening surveillance, public awareness, and healthcare preparedness, the provincial government aims to protect residents and ensure a swift response to potential outbreaks