Press Release | 29 August 2024

After thorough consideration of best available evidence, expert guidance, and domestic experience from the recent pandemic, the Department of Health (DOH) has published its updated interim guidelines on the prevention, detection, and management of Mpox. Numbered as Department Memorandum No. 2024-0306, the Updated DOH Mpox Guidelines provides a sufficient level of operational detail so that health system actors at all levels will have standard protocols to fight the re-emerging disease.

After thorough consideration of best available evidence, expert guidance, and domestic experience from the recent pandemic, the Department of Health (DOH) has published its updated interim guidelines on the prevention, detection, and management of Mpox. Numbered as Department Memorandum No. 2024-0306, the Updated DOH Mpox Guidelines provides a sufficient level of operational detail so that health system actors at all levels will have standard protocols to fight the re-emerging disease.

The main document itself consists of eight pages with guidance that follows the prevent, detect, isolate and quarantine, treat, and reintegrate (PDITR) framework. Formal case definitions are also included along with a visual review of mpox skin lesions. There is also a blank case investigation form (CIF) with contact listing form, tools that field epidemiologists use to sufficiently document each patient’s circumstances so that their data may help inform the public health response. References are also listed to allow for rigorous review and refinement as the mpox situation develops.

“The Updated DOH Mpox Guidelines is scientific and agile. It has been drafted by Filipino experts for Filipino communities, fully aligned with the international response,” said Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa. “The Department appreciates the support of all helping us continue to prepare for a better battle vs mpox,” added the health chief.