Leptospirosis cases in Baguio down 39 percent; 1 confirmed dead

BAGUIO CITY — This mountain resort city has recorded one confirmed death from leptospirosis this year even as cases of the disease declined by 39 percent compared with last year’s tally for the same period, according to the City Health Services Office (CHSO).

In an Aug. 25 statement from the Baguio City Public Information Office, the City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (CESU) reported 14 leptospirosis cases from Jan. 1 to Aug. 15, down from 23 cases in 2025.

The confirmed fatality was a male farmer who died on June 14, with laboratory results later confirming leptospirosis, the CESU said.

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Three other deaths were recorded among suspected leptospirosis cases. Two of the victims—a construction worker and a delivery rider—died in June but tested negative for the disease. The third, a student who died this month, was still awaiting laboratory results.

Of the 14 confirmed cases this year, 13 or 93 percent were male. Patients were between 24 and 71 years old.

Cases have been reported in Barangays Irisan, Camp 7, Bakakeng Central, Phil-Am Compound, Quirino-Magsaysay, Middle Quezon Hill, Outlook Drive, Happy Hollow, City Camp Proper and Kias.

The CESU said people whose work exposes them to potentially contaminated water or soil may be at greater risk of contracting leptospirosis. These include farmers, construction workers, delivery riders, painters, animal caretakers, welders and other outdoor or mobile workers.

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“If you have a fever and history of wading, better have your consultation immediately,” said City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes. 

Leptospirosis can be contracted through exposure to water or soil contaminated with the droppings of infected rodents, particularly when contaminated water comes into contact with cuts or wounds on the skin.

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Brillantes said symptoms may include sudden fever lasting three to five days, severe headache and reddish eyes. Severe infections may progress to yellowing of the skin.

The CHSO is strengthening preventive measures through health education in barangays, rodent control and the clearing of drainage systems in high-risk areas.

The city also plans to coordinate with delivery hubs and construction companies to promote the use of personal protective equipment and conduct workplace safety briefings.

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Brillantes assured residents that the city has sufficient medicines available for leptospirosis treatment. Maureen Matayew / Contributor /mr