DOH logs decrease in leptospirosis deaths despite recent storms

The Department of Health (DOH) reported on Friday that the number of fatalities due to leptospirosis was lower in late October to early November compared to the same time last year.

The DOH said that there were 594 cases nationwide from October 27 to November 9, 2024, which is 2.5 times higher than the 234 cases recorded from October 13 to 26, 2023.

There were 7,234 leptospirosis cases nationwide as of November 23, 2024, up 19% from the 6,058 cases in the same period last year.

The DOH attributed the increase to the storms that hit the country in October, which led to massive flooding in most parts of the Philippines.

However, the DOH has recorded a 9.12% case fatality rate (CFR) so far in 2024, down from 10.83% in the same period last year.

“The continued decrease in CFR despite the rising number of leptospirosis cases this year is attributed to improved case management, with the anticipation that typhoons could flood different areas in the country,” the department said in a statement.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection transmitted by animals, such as rodents. Urine from infected rats could mix with floodwater during heavy rains and could therefore enter the human body of people wading through floods.

Its symptoms include fever, vomiting, nausea, muscle pain, and headaches. But in severe cases, patients may experience yellowish body discoloration, dark-colored urine, light stools, and low urine output.

The DOH emphasized to always wash the body with soap and water once exposed to floodwaters and immediately see a doctor for a prescription of prophylaxis.

Respiratory infections

Meanwhile, the DOH said that it is closely monitoring respiratory infections, particularly flu-like diseases, amid the Amihan season, which brings cool weather.

According to the DOH, as of November 23, there were 161,555 cases of flu-like illnesses, fewer than the 196,045 cases logged in the same period last year.

The DOH highly advised the public to properly wash their hands, wear face masks when feeling ill, practice proper cough etiquette, and seek medical help if needed. —Vince Angelo Ferreras/VBL, GMA Integrated News