BACOLOD City – Suspected cases of leptospirosis have been reported in 30 out of the 31 local government units (LGUs) in Negros Occidental, data from the Provincial Health Office (PHO) showed.
From Jan. 1 to Sept. 16 of this year, the province recorded 123 suspected cases, along with 15 suspected deaths attributed to the disease.
The 10 LGUs with the highest number of suspected cases are as follows:
* Murcia: 10 cases
* Talisay City: 10 cases
* Silay City: 10 cases
* Himamaylan City: 9 cases
* Kabankalan City: 8 cases
* Sipalay City: 6 cases
* Don Salvador Benedicto: 6 cases
* Bago City: 6 cases
* Sagay City: 5 cases
* Victorias City: 5 cases
Murcia recorded the highest number of suspected deaths at five, followed by Don Salvador Benedicto with three and Silay City with two.
The age group most affected by leptospirosis is individuals aged 20 to 30 years old.
The PHO reiterated its advisory for the public to avoid wading in floodwaters and to wear boots as a preventive measure against contracting the bacteria that causes leptospirosis.
Leptospirosis is caused by bacteria spread through the urine of infected animals. Humans can become infected by coming into contact with water, soil, or food contaminated by these bacteria. Symptoms include high fever, headaches, chills, muscle aches, vomiting, jaundice, red eyes, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rashes. The incubation period, from exposure to symptoms, ranges from two days to four weeks. If left untreated, leptospirosis can be fatal.
Dr. Girlie Pinongan, Provincial Health Officer II, urged Negrenses to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms and have a history of wading in floodwaters. She also advised the public to maintain clean surroundings as a preventive measure. (Source: Watchmen Daily Journal)/PN
