By Ma. Teresa Montemayor | Philippine News Agency
The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday reported that leptospirosis cases reached 3,440 as of Aug. 8, down by 35% compared to 5,318 cases recorded during the same period in 2025.
Despite the overall year-over-year decline, epidemiological monitoring logged a 27% bi-weekly increase from July 12 to 25, 2026, recording 348 cases compared to 275 cases between June 28 and July 11.
In response to heavy rains caused by the enhanced southwest monsoon or “habagat,” the DOH has positioned 3.1 million doxycycline capsules across its central office and 17 regional Centers for Health Development (CHDs).
DOH-designated Code White Alert centers, local government units, and nearly 3,000 Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth)-accredited Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) providers nationwide are supplying the prophylaxis, accessible via Yaman ng Kalusugan at Proteksyon (YAKAP) provider prescriptions.
To mitigate clinical costs, PhilHealth updated its benefit packages effective July 15, 2026, adjusting financial coverage rates for leptospirosis patients, where standard hospitalization was raised to P63,000 from P21,450. Severe and critical care has been expanded to range between P170,000 and P411,000 for complex cases requiring specialized treatment.
Treatment for severe leptospirosis cases is covered under the DOH Zero Balance Billing Program across DOH-administered and PhilHealth-accredited hospitals.
The DOH underscored immediate medical intervention for anyone exposed to floodwaters or mud to evaluate risk levels within a 24- to 48-hour window.
“Kahit na walang sintomas, kung lumusong sa baha o na-expose sa putik ay agarang magpakonsulta sa pinakamalapit na health center o doktor sa loob ng 24 hanggang 48 na oras upang masuri ang risk level at mabigyan ng karampatang gamutan o prophylaxis,” the DOH said.
For individuals forced to navigate flooded areas, the agency issued strict precautionary steps such as wearing boots and immediately washing hands and body using soap and clean water.
Patients exhibiting symptoms such as fever, headache, chills, leg muscle pain, or eye redness are urged to report directly to leptospirosis fast lanes established in DOH hospitals or nearby health facilities. (PNA)
