By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) recorded 181 leptospirosis cases from January 1 to November 16, 2024, including four fatalities in Sara, Barotac Nuevo, Cabatuan, and Leon.
This marks a 50% decrease compared to the 361 cases reported during the same period last year.
Janiuay logged the highest number of cases with 16, followed by Leon with 13 cases, including one fatality. Oton reported 12 cases, while Alimodian and Tigbauan had 10 each, and Badiangan recorded eight cases.
Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon, head of the IPHO, stressed the importance of avoiding contact with floodwaters to prevent leptospirosis, a bacterial infection often spread through the urine of infected rodents or contaminated environments.
“We urge parents to ensure their children avoid wading in floodwaters, and we encourage farmers to take antibiotic prophylaxis, which is available for free at rural health units,” Quiñon said.
Leptospirosis is transmitted through the urine of infected animals, which can contaminate water or soil. The risk increases after hurricanes or floods, as contact with contaminated water or soil becomes more likely. The bacteria can enter the body through broken skin or mucous membranes, such as the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Quiñon highlighted that unsanitary conditions contribute to the disease’s spread by attracting rodents, the primary carriers of the bacteria.
She urged the public to maintain cleanliness in their homes and surroundings to discourage pests and rodents from thriving.
She also advised seeking immediate medical attention for symptoms such as high fever, headache, muscle pain, chills, red eyes, abdominal pain, or skin rashes.
The IPHO continues its efforts to raise awareness about leptospirosis and encourages communities to remain vigilant, especially during the rainy season.
