With ongoing flooding in Calasiao, Pangasinan, resident Nathan Bentigan faces daily risks without proper foot protection, as health authorities report a rise in leptospirosis cases.
Bentigan, a resident of Barangay Lasip, has been navigating through floodwaters for nearly a week without proper foot protection.
His boots can no longer withstand the high water levels in his area, and the cost of buying waders is prohibitive.
To avoid illness, he is taking extra precautions, such as washing and disinfecting his feet regularly.
“Naghuhugas nalang talaga ako ng paa at nagsasabon, ganun lang talaga,” Bentigan said.
According to the Center for Health Development (CHD) Region 1, there have been 98 confirmed cases of leptospirosis in the region from January to August this 2024, with 13 deaths reported.
The rising floodwaters have heightened concerns about a potential increase in leptospirosis cases.
"Ngayon palang talaga nagkakaroon ng pag-ulan at pagbaha, so ‘yung mga kaso we are expecting na madadagdagan pa in the coming weeks, kaya patuloy ang ating preparedness and surveillance para sa leptospirosis," Dr. Rheuel Bobis, CHD Region 1 spokesperson, said.
In response, CHD Region 1 distributed leptospirosis medication to various provinces and activated special treatment lanes in hospitals.
CHD 1 urged anyone experiencing symptoms of leptospirosis to seek medical attention promptly.
Symptoms include:
- Sudden fever
- Chills
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Red eyes
- Liver enlargement
- Abdominal pain
- Skin blisters
CHD advises against home treatment to prevent severe complications or death.
