MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines recorded a total of 3,785 cases of leptospirosis from January 1 to August 17 this year, a figure five times higher compared to the same period last year, the Department of Health (DOH) said Monday.
The DOH reported that there were 3,605 cases of leptospirosis during the same period last year, indicating a significant increase in 2023.
According to the DOH, the number of cases surged from 251 between July 7 and 20 to 1,184 from July 21 to August 3—a nearly fivefold increase. This spike occurred while the Philippines experienced habagat rains and Super Typhoon Carina. The number of cases then decreased to 699 between August 4 and 17.
This data was released amid heavy rainfall caused by Typhoon Enteng. Historically, leptospirosis cases rise during typhoons and severe weather events.
The DOH explained that leptospirosis is an infection caused by leptospira bacteria, which are transmitted by animals such as rodents and other vermin. The bacteria are present in the urine and feces of infected animals, particularly rats, and can contaminate soil, water, and vegetation.
Leptospira bacteria can enter the body through cuts or breaks in the skin, as well as through the eyes, nose, and mouth. When infected animal urine, especially from rats, mixes with floodwater, it can come into contact with people who wade through or play in the contaminated water.
DOH epidemiologists warn that, without proper precautions such as prophylaxis, the number of leptospirosis cases is expected to rise again due to flooding caused by Tropical Storm Enteng.
Anyone experiencing symptoms such as a high fever, headache, cold, diarrhea, body aches, red eyes, or loss of appetite is advised to consult a doctor immediately to prevent the condition from worsening.
