ILOILO – Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has issued a warning to residents, particularly farmers, to be vigilant against leptospirosis following a surge in cases in Metro Manila caused by flooding from Typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon.
Defensor acknowledged the inherent risks associated with farming but advised against wading in floodwaters, especially with open wounds.
“It is best to avoid wading in water whenever possible, but we know that if you’re farming, it might be unavoidable. That i why it is crucial not to ignore symptoms related to leptospirosis,” he said.
Leptospirosis is transmitted through contact with urine from infected animals or contaminated environments, entering the body via skin abrasions or the mucous membranes.
Early symptoms include high fever, severe headache, muscle pains, and more severe complications like jaundice and hemorrhages.
Defensor said leptospirosis cases in the province have actually decreased this year, with 86 cases and three deaths from January 1 to August 10, 2024 — a 49 percent drop from the same period in 2023, which saw 168 cases.
The governor attributed this decline to the absence of significant flooding, which typically increases exposure risks.
Out of 43 municipalities, including Passi City, 37 have reported leptospirosis cases. The municipalities of Batad, Bingawan, Carles, Leganes, and San Rafael have not reported any cases.
The Iloilo Provincial Health Office’s data show that Oton leads with seven cases, followed by Leon with five cases (including one death), and Tigbauan also reporting five cases.
Other municipalities with notable cases include Calinog, Igbaras, Lambunao, and Santa Barbara, each reporting four cases. Alimodian, Barotac Nuevo (three cases, one death), and Barotac Viejo each reported three cases.
An additional breakdown provided includes three cases each in Cabatuan (with one death), Miag-ao, Pavia, and Pototan.
Two cases each were recorded in Ajuy, Dingle, Dumangas, Janiuay, Lemery, Maasin, San Enrique, and San Miguel.
The rest of the municipalities reported one case each.
The Department of Health (DOH) also noted a 17 percent increase in leptospirosis cases nationwide over the past two weeks, with 255 new cases registered from July 21 to August 3 following Typhoon Carina. This increase contrasts with the 217 cases from the prior two weeks. Despite a 23 percent decrease in cases year-on-year, the DOH remains cautious, citing possible delays in case reporting and the disease’s incubation period ranging from two to 30 days.
The DOH reiterated the availability of the antibiotic doxycycline, used as prophylaxis against leptospirosis, which requires a prescription and remains under a price freeze until September 23. This medication is available for free at government health centers and hospitals nationwide./PN
