By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) recorded 471 leptospirosis cases from August 8 to 12, DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said Wednesday (August 14, 2024).
Domingo reported that nearly 80 percent of the cases involved adults, while 21 percent were children. Of the cases, 42 percent required hemodialysis.
“Out of that number, 372, or almost 80 percent, are adults, while 99 cases, or around 21 percent, are children. Six patients are currently on mechanical ventilators,” Domingo said in a radio interview.
The DOH also confirmed 20 leptospirosis-related deaths.
The public is advised to call the DOH hotline at 8531-0037 or 09202832758 to find hospitals with available capacity to treat leptospirosis patients. The National Kidney and Transplant Institute and San Lazaro Hospital have reached full capacity.
Domingo also urged those who have waded through floodwaters to visit health centers for a check-up and receive doxycycline, even if they do not show leptospirosis symptoms.
