Mpox Cases in Mindanao, Philippines: What Travelers Should Know Before Visiting
If you're planning a trip to Mindanao, you should know that health officials in the Philippines are worried about more mpox (monkeypox) cases popping up in several provinces down south. You can still visit safely, but travelers should be careful and take steps to protect themselves before they go.
What Is Mpox?
Mpox is a virus that spreads when people have close contact, especially skin-to-skin touch or when they share things like clothes, towels, or bed sheets. It can make you feel sick with fever, swollen glands, rashes, and body aches. The cases in the Philippines right now are from a milder type called Clade II, but it still spreads easily and can be serious for people who don't have strong immune systems.
Where Are the Cases?
As of late May 2025, the Department of Health has found 14 cases in the SOCCSKSARGEN region:
10 in South Cotabato
3 in Sultan Kudarat
1 in North Cotabato
In BARMM (Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao), there are:
2 confirmed cases
6 suspected cases
Other places where they're watching for cases include:
Davao City
Davao del Sur
Maguindanao del Norte
These places aren't shut down, but travelers should stay updated and be extra careful if they visit.
Should You Still Travel?
Yes, but it's smart to be ready. If you can, get vaccinated before your trip. The MVA-BN vaccine (made for smallpox but also works for mpox) can help stop you from getting sick or make it less bad if you do catch it. You really should get it if:
You're staying in hostels or shared rooms
You're going to crowded events or parties
You have health problems that make you get sick easier
You're traveling with young kids or you're pregnant
Safety Tips While in Mindanao
If you're already in the Philippines or going there soon, here's how to stay safe:
Stay away from people who have rashes or feel sick like they have the flu
Don't share personal things like towels or clothes
Wash your hands a lot with soap and water
Use hand sanitizer when you're out and about
If you feel sick, go to a local clinic and tell them where you've been traveling
Should You Skip Certain Areas?
You don't need to cancel your whole trip, but be extra careful if you're visiting:
South Cotabato
Sultan Kudarat
North Cotabato
Davao City
Davao del Sur
Maguindanao del Norte
BARMM provinces
If your immune system isn't strong or you're traveling with kids, you might want to wait to visit these places until things get better.
What to Do After Your Trip
Even after you get home, watch your health for about three weeks. If you notice any signs of sickness, see a doctor and tell them where you've been. Catching it early helps stop it from spreading to other people.
For emergencies while you're in the Philippines, go to a local health center or contact your embassy for help.
