ILOILO – A total of 193 leptospirosis cases, including the six fatalities, were recorded across the province since January of this year, marking a 49% decrease compared to the same period in 2023, when 377 cases were reported, according to the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO).
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease often contracted through contact with water contaminated by urine from infected animals, particularly rats. The bacteria spread through cuts or abrasions on the skin or through mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Early symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, muscle pain, chills, eye redness, abdominal pain, jaundice, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
The six deaths were recorded in the municipalities of Sara, Barotac Nuevo, Cabatuan, San Miguel, Leon, and Janiuay.
The municipalities with the highest number of cases in 2024 are:
* Janiuay – 17 cases, one death
* Leon – 13 cases, one death
* Oton – 12 cases
* Tigbauan – 11 cases
* Alimodian – 10 cases
* Badiangan – 10 cases
* Pototan – 8 cases
* San Miguel – 7 cases, one death
* Santa Barbara – 7 cases
* Cabatuan – 6 cases, one death
Farmers and Laborers Most Affected
IPHO head Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon noted that farmers and laborers are particularly vulnerable to leptospirosis due to their frequent exposure to floodwaters contaminated with rat urine.
“Most of our cases, including the fatalities, involve farmers who wade through floodwaters as part of their work,” Quiñon said.
She reiterated the need to avoid wading in floodwaters whenever possible. For those who cannot avoid it, such as farmers, protective gear like boots is essential. Thoroughly washing feet with soap and clean water after exposure is also advised.
Farmers with cuts or wounds on their feet are encouraged to visit their local Rural Health Unit (RHU) to seek prophylactic medication and treatment to prevent infection.
“Those with wounds should clean them thoroughly and consult an RHU or hospital for appropriate treatment,” she added.
Other municipalities with reported cases include:
* Estancia, Lambunao, and Pavia – six cases each
* Miag-ao – five cases
* Barotac Nuevo – four cases, one death
* Zarraga, Guimbal, Igbaras, Lemery, Calinog, New Lucena, and Barotac Viejo – four cases each
* Passi City, San Enrique, Maasin, Mina, and Sara – three cases each, with Sara recording one death
* Ajuy, Anilao, Balasan, Concepcion, Dingle, Dueñas, Dumangas – two cases each
* Banate, Leganes, San Dionisio, San Joaquin, and Tubungan – one case each
No cases were recorded in Batad, Bingawan, and San Rafael.
Maintaining Hygiene to Control Rats
Dr. Quiñon emphasized the importance of proper waste disposal and maintaining cleanliness to reduce rat infestations.
“Rats thrive in garbage, and their urine can spread leptospira bacteria. During floods, this contamination can spread to the public,” Quiñon explained./PN
