MANILA, Philippines— Senator Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian called on schools to strengthen health and hygiene measures following the detection of monkeypox (mpox) cases in the country.

In a statement, Gatchalian emphasized the need for schools to implement preventive practices such as proper handwashing and respiratory hygiene to reduce the risk of mpox transmission among students, teachers, and non-teaching staff.

“Schools should also ensure the availability of handwashing stations, raise awareness about monkeypox, proactively monitor the health of school personnel, and maintain close coordination with health facilities,” the senator said.

With the upcoming opening of the new school year, Gatchalian underscored the importance of safeguarding the health and safety of the school community against the threat of the virus.

“Ngayong nalalapit na ang pagbubukas ng panibagong school year, mahalagang tiyakin natin ang kaligtasan ng ating mga paaralan mula sa banta ng mpox,” he added.

Health authorities have reminded the public to remain vigilant and to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and rashes appear.