The Department of Health (DOH) declared a ‘Code White Alert’ in all its Centers for Health Development (regional offices) nationwide, as well as for the Ministry of Health in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MOH-BARMM) due to typhoon ‘Carina.’
The health units shall conduct proactive monitoring and reporting of any untoward health incidents via the DOH Health Emergency Management Bureau (HEMB) integrated information system linked to the HEMB Operations Center (OPCEN).
As this developed, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa reminded the public to avoid floodwaters and mud to prevent contracting leptospirosis, a blood infection caused by the ‘leptospira’ bacteria that can infect humans, dogs, rodents and many other wild and domesticated animals.
For those who need to brave the floods, Herbosa advised them to wear knee-high boots, wash their body with soap and water immediately, and consult a doctor or health center within 24 hours after wading through the flood. It takes time or about one month for leptospirosis symptoms to appear.
He also reminded the public of health risks of leptospirosis, and other diseases, due to floods. The bacteria can enter the body through breaks in the skin, or through the eyes, nose and mouth. There are antibiotics available for prevention (i.e., prophylaxis), and this requires a prescription.
The DOH observed that as of Morbidity Week 28 (July 13, 2024), the total number of Leptospirosis cases stands at 1,258.
In the six weeks before July 13, Leptospirosis cases have been on a downtrend—from 175 cases last June 2-15, to 154 cases last June 16-29, to 111 cases last June 30 to July 13.
However, case counts may still rise due to late reports, and especially with recent weather events like the enhanced southwest monsoon attributed to ‘Carina.’
The following regions had reported increases in Leptospirosis cases from June 2 to July 13: Zamboanga Peninsula, CARAGA, SOCCSKARGEN, Western Visayas, MiMaRoPa, Eastern Visayas, and Northern Mindanao.
At least 133 deaths have already been recorded due to leptospirosis as of July 13.
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