ILOILO CITY — The Department of Health (DOH-6) in Western Visayas)on Friday reported that from Jan. 1 to Aug. 11 this year, the region has recorded 313 leptospirosis cases with 39 deaths.
Dr. Ma. Sophia Pulmones, head of the Local Health Support Division of DOH-6, reminded the public, especially those who have wounds, to avoid wading in floods to prevent leptospirosis.
The reminder came after the department received reports that there are flood-prone areas in the region prone, especially with the monsoon rains enhanced by Typhoon Ompong.
She said floods may be contaminated with bacterial infection from domestic animals, especially rats.
Most of the cases were in Negros Occidental with 103 cases and 10 deaths; Iloilo province – 84 cases with 10 deaths; Capiz, 38 cases with eight deaths; Guimaras – 32 cases with three deaths; Iloilo City – 23 cases with four deaths; Bacolod City – 17 cases with three deaths; Antique – nine cases; and Aklan – three cases with one death.
“As much as possible, avoid contact with the flood because we do not know if the water is contaminated or not. If they cannot avoid it, they should use protective gears especially boots,” she said.
She particularly warned farmers working in their farms because they are prone to the infection.
“Even those who come in contact with animals like pigs or cattle, they should wash their feet or hands,” she added.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by leptospira spirochetes bacteria that is spread through the urine of infected animals, especially rats.
The symptoms of the disease include high fever, muscle pain, redness of the eye, chills, severe headache, vomiting, diarrhea, or yellowish skin discoloration.
Pulmones urged the public to immediately consult a doctor if they have been exposed to flood and are experiencing the disease’s symptoms. (Cindy Ferrer/PNA)
