LINGAYEN, Pangasinan — Pangasinan’s provincial health office has recorded 26 cases of leptospirosis from January to April 23 this year, up 30 percent from the 20 cases logged during the same period last year.
Dr. Anna Teresa de Guzman, the provincial health officer, said Thursday 15 leptospirosis cases were reported in January, seven in February, one in March, and three in April.
Sual leads the health office’s watch list with four cases, followed by Manaoag and Laoac with two cases each.
“Most common victims, according to our profile, are males with 18 cases, while the 15 to 19 years old age group has the most affected victims with six cases,” de Guzman said, noting that fatalities have reached four — two from Sual, and one each from Bolinao and Manaoag.
“If you cannot avoid wading in waters or soil because of your work, foot protection should be worn at all times,” she advised residents.
De Guzman also said workers should regularly wash parts of their body submerged in mud or water.
“Leptospirosis is a disease that occurs when the bacteria coming from urine of animals get into the body through open wounds. If not treated, it could lead to death. The symptoms of leptospirosis are high fever, yellowing of the skin, muscle pains, and yellowish urine,” she added. (Ahikam Pasion/PNA)
