DOH: 6,253 leptospirosis cases logged as of August 29

MANILA, Philippines — The number of leptospirosis cases in the country has risen to 6,253 as of Aug. 29, which is, however, 12 percent lower compared to cases in the same period last year, according to the (DOH).

In a press briefing, Health Undersecretary Dr. Gloria Balboa once again warned the public against wading in floodwaters as she noted that cases of leptospirosis are expected to further rise in the next two weeks.

Leptospirosis is a disease caused by the bacteria Leptospira, and is transmitted to humans through contact with the urine of infected animals.

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The DOH explained that the disease has an incubation period of five to 15 days.

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READ: DOH: Leptospirosis cases lower this year

Balboa said around 1 percent of all leptospirosis cases in the country are considered as severe. A total of 378 deaths caused by the disease have been recorded nationwide from Jan. 4 to Aug. 29, she said.

The health undersecretary urged the public to immediately visit the nearest health center if they are exposed to floodwaters so that they can get the appropriate treatment.

“When you are exposed, within 72 hours is the [period] during which taking doxycycline will be effective, but you need to consult first because there are proper instructions [in taking the medicine],” Balboa said in Filipino, referring to the antibiotic used to treat leptospirosis.

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She said that those with leptospirosis will first experience symptoms such as fever followed by chills.

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Once the infection spreads to the liver, this will cause yellowing of the eyes or skin. If it reaches the kidney, the infected individual would have dark colored urine and may even need to undergo dialysis.

“Let’s not wait for that,” Balboa said.

“At the first sign of a symptom, whatever you feel, even if it’s just an ordinary fever, you need to get a check-up, because the progression of this illness is also very fast.”

She assured that hospitals are prepared amid the increase in leptospirosis cases, noting that guidelines on the implementation of a “surge capacity plan” have already been established.

This includes transferring patients to other hospitals or assigning additional health workers if needed.

READ: Leptospirosis cases surge, NKTI limits walk-in admissions

Balboa added that some patients may also be referred to private hospitals since their treatment will be covered by the Philippine Health Insurance Corp., whose benefit package for leptospirosis has been increased to a maximum of P411,000.

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Moreover, she also urged employers to provide personal protective equipment to their workers to ensure that they will be protected from leptospirosis. /gsg