The Department of Health (DoH) anticipates a surge in leptospirosis cases due to the incessant rains experienced in various parts of the country over the past few days.
During an interview on dwPM radio, Health Undersecretary Enrique Tayag, who serves as the chief information officer, emphasized that the prevalence of the bacterial infection is expected to escalate as a result of widespread flooding.
Leptospirosis is caused by the leptospira bacteria, which can be present in floodwaters contaminated by animal urine.
Tayag highlighted that areas with accumulated trash and flooding are particularly prone to contamination.
Among the symptoms of leptospirosis mentioned by Tayag are high fever, sore eyes, jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin), as well as difficulties in urination or abnormal urine coloration, which could indicate potential kidney failure.
To prevent infection, Tayag urged the public to wear rain boots when navigating through floodwaters.
Additionally, Tayag cautioned about the potential risk of other waterborne diseases, such as cholera, and emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness in one’s surroundings and boiling water that may be contaminated. (AI/MNM)
