Philippines Confronts Misinformation Amid Declining Monkeypox Cases
The Philippines is grappling with a wave of misinformation surrounding monkeypox (mpox), even as the Department of Health (DOH) reports a decline in cases. False claims circulating on social media platforms, particularly Facebook, have sparked unnecessary alarm, prompting the DOH to issue a stern warning against these misleading narratives. The misinformation campaign, characterized by deceptive marketing tactics, fabricated expert endorsements, and unsubstantiated health pronouncements, has prompted the DOH to collaborate with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to identify and remove the offending accounts.
Assistant Secretary of Health Dr. Albert Domingo has urged the public to remain vigilant and discerning in the face of these false narratives. He emphasized that mpox is not an airborne disease and, therefore, does not necessitate lockdowns. Domingo clarified that the increased visibility of mpox in the news is primarily due to heightened public awareness campaigns by local government units (LGUs), not due to a surge in infections. He assured the public that the government is actively monitoring the situation and is committed to providing accurate and timely information.
The DOH spokesperson also addressed concerns surrounding the effectiveness of face masks in preventing mpox transmission. He clarified that, unlike respiratory illnesses, mpox spreads primarily through direct skin-to-skin contact or close proximity. Therefore, while face masks are crucial in preventing the spread of airborne diseases, they are not effective against mpox. Domingo advised LGUs to consult with the DOH for guidance on the appropriate precautionary measures against mpox.
In an effort to allay public fears, Domingo reiterated that the number of mpox cases in May 2025 was lower than in April 2025. He underscored the effectiveness of ongoing control measures and the collaborative efforts between the DOH and LGUs in combating the disease. He also highlighted that the Philippines has not yet detected any cases of the more severe mpox clade 1B, which has a higher mortality rate. The cases in the Philippines belong to clade 2, which has a significantly lower mortality rate of approximately one in ten, compared to four or five in ten for clade 1B.
Domingo provided a further breakdown of the case numbers, revealing that over 50 cases were recorded in April 2025, while less than 50 were recorded in May 2025. He also noted that some reported cases initially suspected to be mpox were later confirmed to be chickenpox, underscoring the importance of accurate diagnosis and reporting. He emphasized that the decline in cases is a testament to the effectiveness of the government’s strategy and the heightened public awareness regarding mpox.
The DOH encourages the public to rely on credible sources for health information, specifically directing individuals to the department’s official website and social media accounts. The department remains dedicated to providing accurate, evidence-based information to ensure public health and safety, particularly in the fight against misinformation and the spread of mpox. The current focus is on reinforcing public health measures, continuing surveillance, and promoting responsible information sharing to mitigate anxieties and prevent unnecessary panic. Domingo reiterated the importance of public cooperation in adhering to preventive measures and seeking information from credible sources as crucial steps in containing the spread of mpox. He emphasized that the DOH will continue to work diligently with LGUs and other stakeholders to strengthen the national response to mpox and ensure the health and well-being of the Filipino population.