The Manila city government has opened its health centers to provide free doxycycline to residents who waded through floodwaters as a preventive measure against leptospirosis.
The Manila Health Department said health centers will temporarily focus on leptospirosis-related services, while patients with other medical concerns are advised to visit the nearest local government hospital.
The Department of Health (DOH) warned that leptospirosis cases have increased by 1 percent compared to the same period last year and may rise further due to heavy rains and flooding caused by Typhoon Inday.
The disease can lead to fever, body aches, vomiting, jaundice, and other serious complications if left untreated.
Health authorities also urged the public to avoid floodwaters whenever possible or wear boots and cover open wounds with waterproof bandages if exposure cannot be avoided.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 12, 2026
