LEPTOSPIROSIS CASES SOAR PAST 3,000 AFTER ONSET OF RAINS, DOH WARNS

The Department of Health (DOH) has recorded 3,037 leptospirosis cases nationwide from January 1 to July 19, with over a third reported shortly after the rainy season began in early June.

From June 8 alone, 1,114 cases were logged, including 569 new infections between July 13 and 31.

DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa said the agency is monitoring for severe cases requiring hospitalization or dialysis and urged residents in flood-affected areas to seek medical attention if symptoms appear.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial disease often contracted through floodwaters contaminated with animal urine, can lead to serious complications such as kidney failure or death.

To help prevent infections, the DOH has pre-positioned supplies of doxycycline but emphasized that it should only be taken with a doctor’s prescription.

Source: PhilNews24 | August 3, 2025