By Mariela Angella Oladive
A 30-year-old male farmer from Sara has been confirmed as the first leptospirosis-related fatality in Iloilo province this year, according to the Provincial Health Office (PHO).
The patient died from complications of the disease on March 7 at a district hospital.
“Our disease surveillance officers are still conducting further investigations to determine the details surrounding the patient’s death and whether the exposure came from farming or other activities,” Dr. Rodney Labis, head of the PHO’s Health Service Delivery Division, said in a statement Thursday, March 20.
PHO data shows that the province recorded 25 cases of leptospirosis from Jan. 1 to March 15, 2025, across 16 municipalities.
This marks a 24% decrease from the 33 cases reported during the same period last year, which also resulted in one fatality.
Dumangas recorded the highest number of cases with three, followed by San Miguel, Pototan, Maasin, Badiangan, Alimodian, Estancia, and Passi City, with two cases each.
Meanwhile, Oton, Pavia, Leganes, Janiuay, Leon, Batad, Lambunao, and Sara each reported one case.
Dr. Labis noted that most cases involved individuals aged 30 and above, primarily farmers and laborers, with agricultural activities identified as the most common source of exposure.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection transmitted through direct contact with water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals, particularly rodents.
The bacteria can enter the body through open wounds, cuts, or mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, or mouth, making those exposed to floodwaters, rice fields, irrigation canals, and stagnant water sources particularly vulnerable.
Symptoms typically appear two to 30 days after exposure, with most cases developing symptoms within one to two weeks.
Early symptoms include fever, chills, muscle pain, and headache, which may progress to severe complications such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark or reduced urine output, and organ failure.
If left untreated, leptospirosis can be fatal.
The PHO advises residents, particularly those in high-risk areas, to take precautions against leptospirosis:
Avoid wading in floodwaters, rice paddies, and contaminated water sources.
Wear protective boots and gloves when working in flood-prone or agricultural areas.
Wash hands and exposed body parts thoroughly with soap and clean water after possible exposure.
Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.
Health centers offer free prophylactic medication, and residents are encouraged to consult Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), midwives, or local health personnel for guidance.
“Leptospirosis is a serious but preventable disease. We urge the public, especially those working in agriculture, to take the necessary precautions and seek early medical consultation if they develop symptoms,” Dr. Labis emphasized.
