Region 1 has recorded up to 145 cases of leptospirosis and 24 deaths as of September 28, 2024.
The region’s Center for Health Development (CHD) said the number of cases started going up after recent weather disturbances flooded several areas in the region.
Pangasinan has the most number of cases with 52 followed by La Union with 47, Dagupan City with 19, Ilocos Sur with 14, and Ilocos Norte with 13.
“Actually, lahat naman ng ating mga probinsya sa ating Region nagkaroon ng exposure sa tubig ulan at sa pagbaha kaya ‘yung mga cases natin ng leptospirosis, nakitaan natin ng pagtaas,” said Dr. Rheuel Bobis, spokesperson of CHD Region 1.
Unfortunately, at least 24 residents have died from the disease, Bobis said.
Pangasinan, Dagupan City, and La Union all recorded seven deaths. Ilocos Sur recorded two while Ilocos Norte recorded one.
NUMBER OF CASES AS OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2024:
- Pangasinan - 52
- La Union - 47
- Dagupan City - 19
- Ilocos Sur - 14
- Ilocos Norte - 13
NUMBER OF DEATHS AS OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2024:
- Pangasinan - 7
- Dagupan City - 7
- La Union - 7
- Ilocos Sur - 2
- Ilocos Norte - 1
Source: CHD Region 1
To avoid contracting leptospirosis, residents like Milagros delos Santos make sure she uses her boots each time she goes out.
Floodwaters in her area in barangay, Pantal, in Dagupan City, have lingered for a week and have not receded, as of this writing.
She also washes her feet regularly with warm water.
“Mahirap magkasakit lalo na ako, senior citizen… mahirap talaga kaya maingat ako,” she said.
