ILOILO – Following torrential rains that caused flooding, especially in low-lying areas, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) is urging residents, particularly farmers and laborers, to be vigilant against leptospirosis.
As of July 20, 2024, the province has recorded 68 cases of the bacterial disease, including three fatalities.
This marks a 52 percent decrease from the 143 cases reported in the same period in 2023.
Leptospirosis transmits through contact with urine from infected animals or environments contaminated by such urine. The bacteria can enter the body through skin cuts or the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Early symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, muscle pains, eye redness, jaundice, and even skin and mucous membrane hemorrhages.
Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñón, head of the IPHO, advises avoiding wading in floodwaters.
For those whose occupations make this unavoidable, like farmers and laborers, wearing protective gear and ensuring no open wounds are present on the feet is crucial.
Post-exposure, it is recommended to thoroughly rinse with clean water and soap and seek prophylaxis treatment at local Rural Health Units (RHUs).
First District’s Cong. Janette Garin also stresses the importance of timely medical intervention.
“Those exposed to floodwaters should take doxycycline within 48 hours, and if wounded, within three days,” explained Garin, a physician.
She added that anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever or changes in urine color after exposure should seek immediate care at RHUs for early management.
The municipalities with the highest incidence of leptospirosis are Calinog, Leon (four cases, including one death), Oton, and Santa Barbara, each reporting four cases.
Alimodian, Barotac Nuevo (three cases, one death), Barotac Viejo, Cabatuan (three cases, one death), Igbaras, and Lambunao followed with three cases each.
An additional 23 municipalities reported cases, totaling 33 affected areas out of 43 municipalities in the province, including Passi City.
These are Miag-ao (three), Pavia (three), Tigbauan (three), Janiuay (two) Lemery (two), San Enrique (two), Massin (two), San Miguel (two), Ajuy (one), Balasan (one), Banate (one), Concepcion (one), Dingle (one), Dueñas (one), Dumangas (one), Guimbal (one), Mina (one), New Lucena (one), Passi City (one), San Dionisio (one), Sara (one), Tubungan (one), and Zarraga (one).
Notably, Anilao, Badiangan, Batad, Bingawan, Carles, Estancia, Leganes, Pototan, San Joaquin, and San Rafael have reported no cases thus far./PN
