Leptospirosis cases rise in flooded Davao Region

Flood victims in Davao Region have expressed worry after cases of leptospirosis have gone up, according to the Department of Health-Davao (DOH-11).

The DOH-11 said leptospirosis cases in the region went up in January 2024 compared to the same period last year.

From January 1 to 27, the DOH-11 has recorded 34 cases of leptospirosis with two deaths, which is 48% higher compared to the 23 cases logged in 2023.

Davao de Oro has the most number of cases followed by Davao del Norte. These provinces are hit hard by recent flooding and landslides.

The DOH-11 said leptospirosis is caused by a bacteria called leptospira, which can be found from secretion of an infected animal.

"Ang leptospirosis is gikan sa bacteria nga leptospira. Makuha na siya sa katung mga infected na animal mga secretion sa animal. Pag naa siya sa usa ka animal, unya ang kato siya na animal mag-come in contact with tao ang kato siya na tao ma infect pud with leptospirosis. Everytime nga naay pag-ulan, usa ni siya sa atong ginabantayan nga disease,” DOH RESU Head, Dr. Rachel Pasion, said.

Mild symptoms of leptospirosis include body pain, fever, and headache, while severe symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, among others.

Health experts warned the public against wading through floodwaters, especially if one has an open wound. If possible, one should wear protective gears like boots, gloves, and suits.

DOH-11 also urged those who had to submerge in floodwaters to get anti-leptospirosis medicines from health centers.

“Actually, naa pu’y mga libre nga gina-distribute ang sa health center ani na tambal basta ting-ulan. Actually, ang DOH nag-augment na pud ta og mga tambal. 7,000 na ka tambal ang gihatag nga gi-distribute sa lain-laing mga province nga affected such as Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro. Naghatag na ta didto and they can access the medicine,” Pasion said. —GMA Regional TV