Leptospirosis cases up in four regions, says DOH

The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday said it observed an increase in leptospirosis cases in some areas in Region II, Region VIII, the Cordillera Administrative Region, and the National Capital Region.

According to data from the DOH, there were 631 leptospirosis cases reported from January 1 to May 7 — 6% higher compared to cases during the same period last year.

“Tag-ulan na po kasi, nakikita na natin na laging umuulan so dito po talaga nagkakaroon tayo because ‘yung mga baha, nag-iipon ng tubig, tapos ‘yung maduduming kapaligiran dahil ‘yung ihi ng mga hayop ang sumasa diyan sa floodwater,” Health Undersecretary Maria Vergeire told Super Radyo dzBB.

(It’s rainy season and leptospirosis is common due to the flooding and the dirty environment. The urine of animals mixes with the floodwater.)

According to the DOH, weekly cases were lower at the start of the year. However, cases increased by 193% from March 13 to April 30 compared to last year, as the DOH recorded 338 cases.

From April 10 to May 7, the agency recorded 154 leptospirosis cases, of which 20% came from Region VI, 15% from Region II, and 13% from NCR.

To prevent this, Vergeire advised the public to wear boots when wading in floodwater, wash their feet after contact with floodwater, and get checked in case of symptoms.

“If it cannot be avoided, use sealed footwear like waterproof boots, and ask your doctor or health care provider about how to properly take post-exposure medicine after being exposed to flood waters, and if you get any signs or symptoms like fever or headache,” the DOH said. —KBK, GMA News