MANILA, Philippines —The Department of Health (DOH) reported an increasing number of leptospirosis as the country faces the onset of the rainy season.
According to the recent DOH tally, 878 cases of leptospirosis were recorded as of June 15. Of the total number of cases, 84 resulted in deaths.
Additionally, 83 cases were logged from June 2 to 15. This number is higher compared to the 60 cases reported from May 19 to June 1.
“While this is only around half of the number of Leptospirosis cases (1,769) in the same period last year, the DOH has observed that the weekly case count has started rising with the rains,” the DOH said.
Leptospirosis cases went up in all areas except Zamboanga Peninsula and Northern Mindanao compared to last month, the health department said.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread by animals such as rodents. When infected animals like rats urinate, their urine can mix with flood water during heavy rains. People who walk through flooded areas can then get infected if the contaminated water enters their bodies.
“Without treatment, leptospirosis in people can lead to kidney damage, meningitis (inflammation of the membrane around the brain and spinal cord), liver failure, trouble breathing, and even death,” the DOH said.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa advised the public to stay out of floodwater to avoid getting leptospirosis. If it can’t be avoided and people have to go through it, wear boots and wash with clean water and soap right after.
“We also urge our local governments to declog flood drains and implement rodent control so that there will not be less chances for transmission to humans,” Herbosa said in a statement.
