MANILA — Catholic prelates urged the public to be more cautious when wading in floods, especially in areas where there is an outbreak of leptospirosis.
“We have really to be careful because of the flooding and the dirt in our environs in Metro Manila. People should avoid wading in the floods even if they say they have no wounds,” said Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillio in a text message to reporters on Thursday.
Pabillo also advised the people to immediately consult a doctor once they feel the symptoms of the disease.
“People should immediately seek medical help if they have the symptoms of the disease,” the Catholic prelate added.
On the other hand, Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco expressed alarm over the outbreak of leptospirosis in seven areas in Metro Manila.
Ongtioco, however, said he is confident that authorities will do their best to control the spread of the disease.
“It is alarming and I am sure the DOH (Department of Health) will act immediately because this is their responsibility and competency,” said Ongtioco in a text message.
On Thursday, Health Secretary Francisco Duque declared an outbreak of leptospirosis in certain parts of Metro Manila following the rising number of cases in the last two weeks.
These areas include Barangays Bagbag, Silangan, Batasan Hills, Commonwealth, Novaliches Proper, Payatas, Pinyahan and Vasra in Quezon City; Barangays Lower Bicutan, Maharlika, Signal Village and Western Bicutan in Taguig; Barangay Pinagbuhatan in Pasig; Barangays BF homes and San Dionisio in Parañaque City; Barangay North Bay Boulevard in Navotas; Barangay Addition Hills in Mandaluyong; and Barangay Concepcion in Malabon.
The DOH said that leptospirosis’ symptoms include high fever, muscle pain, eye redness, yellowing of skin, tea colored urine, decreased urine output, cough, diarrhea and vomiting.
It added that if left untreated, leptospirosis may cause kidney failure, brain damage, massive internal bleeding, and death. (PNA)
