CEBU CITY — The Department of Health (DOH) in the Negros Island Region confirmed that two individuals have died of glanders in the province of Siquijor.

Glanders is a zoonotic disease transmitted to humans from animals such as goats, horses and carabaos.

Both fatalities were male and had been confined at a hospital in Negros Oriental. They also had comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes. 

Dr. Nikka Hao, director of DOH-NIR, said they are managing the situation through the establishment of the NIR One Health Task Force. 

She added Glander is a known disease with readily available treatment and prevention methods.

"Glanders is rarely passed from human to human," said Hao.  

The DOH has discouraged direct contact with animals and consumption of meat and meat products from sick animals. 

DOH-NIR continues their surveillance, contact tracing, and community based health education with medical teams are conducting community visits to monitor and detect early signs, while animal surveillance and testing is being led by the Department of Agriculture.

Some symptoms of glanders include fever, cough and body pain.

MONKEYPOX IN BOHOL 

Meanwhile in Bohol, the provincial health office released an advisory notifying all health units of the presence of monkeypox in other provinces.

What is mpox, how is it spread, and how can it be prevented?

“While the same has not been noted in our province, all reporting units are still requested to intensify the information, education communication campaign in your designated area regarding the prevention and control of monkeypox among individuals,” said Dr. Fruserma Mary Uy, officer-in-charge of the Provincial Health Office.

They are highlighting the importance of early consultation and isolation.

“Let's protect ourselves and our community. Stay home and avoid crowded places. Monkeypox is preventable and manageable with timely action,” Uy added. 

The DOH in Central Visayas has yet to issue a statement on monkeypox.

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