DOH monitoring leptospirosis cases amid widespread floods

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) said on Wednesday that it was monitoring a possible increase in leptospirosis cases amid widespread flooding and heavy rains in many parts of Luzon because of the enhanced southwest monsoon.

In a statement, the DOH noted that it recorded 3,440 cases of leptospirosis from Jan. 4 to Aug. 8 this year, which is 35 percent lower compared to the 5,318 recorded during the same period in 2025.

It added, however, that there was an increase from July 12 to July 25, during which it recorded 348 cases. This was 27-percent higher than the 275 cases recorded from June 28 to July 11.

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Out of the 3,440 cases, there were 220 deaths, the DOH said.

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Leptospirosis is a disease caused by Leptospira bacteria. It is commonly transmitted to humans through direct contact with the urine of infected animals such as rats.

READ: Waded through floods? DOH lists steps to prevent leptospirosis

READ: DOH sees 6% rise in leptospirosis; over 2,000 cases logged in last 5 months

Doxycycline available

The DOH said there are 3.1 million capsules of doxycycline, an antibiotic used to treat or prevent leptospirosis, that were forwarded to its central office and 17 centers for health development nationwide to respond to the needs of local governments and hospitals.

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The public may also avail themselves of doxycycline from around 3,000 Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment providers accredited by the Philippine Health Insurance Corp.. However, they must first get a doctor’s prescription.

“The department again reminds [the public]: Avoid wading through floodwaters, especially if you have wounds or scratches on the skin. If it cannot be avoided, wear boots and immediately wash your hands and body using soap and clean water,” the DOH said.

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It added that those who waded through floodwaters or were exposed to mud, regardless of whether or not they experience any symptoms, should still go to the nearest health center within 24 to 48 hours for an assessment of their risk level.

The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole), on the other hand, reiterated that private sector employees who refuse or fail to report for work because of imminent danger from weather disturbances and similar events should not be subjected to any administrative sanctions.

It said that under Labor Advisory No. 14, private employers may suspend work to “ensure the safety and health of their employees during weather disturbances and similar occurrences.”

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Employees who are absent will not be entitled to regular pay, Dole said, unless they use their leave credits, or if there is a favorable company policy, practice or collective bargaining agreement that grants payment of wages on the said day. /mcm /atm