The Provincial Health Office (PHO) of Aurora confirmed its first case of Mpox (monkeypox) infection and is urging the public to observe heightened health and safety measures.

While the identity of the patient remains confidential, the PHO said it is monitoring several other suspected cases. Officials warned of a high risk of transmission due to frequent travel in and out of the province.

Mpox, or monkeypox, is a viral disease transmitted through close physical contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials. This includes direct contact with rashes, scabs, body fluids, or objects such as clothing, bedding, and surfaces previously touched by an infected person.

The infection typically develops within a week after exposure, although symptoms can appear anywhere from 1 to 21 days. These usually last two to four weeks but may persist longer in individuals with compromised immune systems. Common symptoms include rashes, fever, sore throat, headache, muscle pain, back pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.

The PHO is advising individuals with symptoms to wear face masks, avoid contact with others, and seek medical attention immediately.

Meanwhile, the Department of Health (DOH) reiterated there is no need to impose lockdowns in any part of the country. The agency also urged the public to rely only on verified information from official DOH platforms and to avoid sharing or believing in unverified reports.