THE Department of Health (DoH) assured the public there was enough supply of antibiotics against leptospirosis, after releasing a million capsules of the medicine on Friday.
DoH spokesman Albert Domingo also said that all regions nationwide have received their supplies of antibiotics, in addition to what is available in the private sector.
However, he warned pharmacies and businesses against raising prices, saying that the DoH, along with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), are closely monitoring to ensure fair pricing of antibiotics.
Albert Domingo, DoH spokesman
“So, to the pharmacies and businesses planning to raise prices, we are watching you, along with the DTI, because there is plenty of supply,” Domingo said.
Health officials are particularly concerned about leptospirosis — a bacterial infection transmitted through floodwaters and mud or handling contaminated soil — and whose symptoms potentially appear up to a month after exposure.
The bacteria enter the body through breaks in the skin or mucous membranes. Contact with flood water mixed with urine from infected animals, particularly rats, can lead to infection.
If left untreated, leptospirosis can result in severe health issues such as kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, respiratory problems, and death.
Symptoms of leptospirosis include fever, vomiting, nausea, muscle pain, headache, calf muscle pain, and reddish eyes.
Severe cases may present jaundice, dark urine, light stools, low urine output, and severe headaches. The symptoms can resemble other diseases and may take 2 to 30 days to appear.
The DoH stresses the importance of immediate medical consultation and the use of preventive antibiotics after exposure to floodwaters.
Domingo advises that certain individuals should not take antibiotics, including pregnant women, children below 12 years old, and those with specific health conditions.
Consulting a doctor or medical professional before taking any medication is crucial. While not everyone exposed to floodwaters needs antibiotics, medical checkups are still recommended, said Domingo.
As of July 13, 2024, the DoH had recorded 1,258 cases of leptospirosis. While there has been a notable decrease in recent weeks, the number of cases may rise due to late reporting and recent weather events.
Also, the DoH is closely monitoring dietary services and food safety while actively promoting breastfeeding within family units through designated breastfeeding areas. Despite concerns about congestion rates and the potential threat of diseases, no significant outbreaks have been reported so far, said Domingo.
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