CAPIZ – Leptospirosis claimed five lives in this province since January this year, data from the Capiz Provincial Health Office (PHO) showed.
The PHO logged 26 cases of leptospirosis from Jan. 1 to April 1, including the death cases.
Cases this year are 225.00 percent higher than last year’s eight cases.
Leptospirosis is caused by the leptospira bacteria, which is found in both wild and domestic animals, including rats, dogs, cattle, pigs, horses and insectivores (carnivorous mammals that survive by eating small insects), according to the Department of Health (DOH).
Rats shed large amounts of leptospires in their urine, and human transmission occurs through contact of the skin and mucous membranes with urine-contaminated water, damp soil, vegetation or mud.
It takes about 10 days before manifestations appear, though in some cases it can take as little as two days or as many as 30 after exposure.
Leptospirosis can be prevented by avoiding contact with animal urine or body fluids, especially if there are cuts or abrasions of the skin.
It is advised to wear protective clothing or footwear near soil or water that may be contaminated with animal urine. During the rainy season, consume boiled water.
Also, avoid swimming or wading in muddy ponds and slowly moving streams, especially those located near farms or stagnant water.
It is also important to control rats and mice around the home regularly.
Without treatment, leptospirosis can lead to kidney damage, meningitis (inflammation of the membrane around the brain and spinal cord), liver failure, respiratory distress, and even death.
Symptoms include fever, headaches, chills, muscle aches, jaundice, red eyes, and abdominal pain.
One should immediately take prophylaxis for a period of 24 to 48 hours and seek immediate medical attention should they experience these symptoms./PN
