ILOILO – Eleven people died of leptospirosis in this province between Jan. 1 and Oct. 30 this year.
They were from the towns of Janiuay, Lambunao and Guimbal with two each, and Oton, Tigbauan, San Joaquin, Barotac Viejo, and San Enrique with one each.
These deaths were among the 91 leptospirosis cases this province recorded in the said period.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects both humans and animals. Humans become infected through direct contact with the urine of infected animals or with a urine-contaminated environment.
The bacteria enter the body through cuts or abrasions on the skin, or through the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose and eyes.
These local government units had the most “leptos” cases: Janiuay – 11, Oton – eight, Lambunao – six, Passi City – six, Cabatuan – six, Tigbauan – five, New Lucena – four, San Joaquin – four, San Rafael –four, and Alimodian – four.
Cases this year rose by 214 percent against last year’s (same period), according of Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon, head of the Provincial Health Office.
Meanwhile, these towns had zero leptospirosis cases so far: Balasan, Carles, Tubungan, Estancia, Igbaras, San Miguel, Sara, Leganes, Pavia, Lemery, Barotac Nuevo, Bingawan, San Dionisio, Ajuy, and Batad.
“Please do not take for granted other diseases that are endemic in Iloilo province,” said Quiñon.
For someone who had a history of wading into the flood or for the farmers plowing the rice fields, the PHO is enjoining them to go to their Rural Health Units (RHU) for prophylaxis.
“The Iloilo PHO has augmented some stocks of antibiotics for prophylaxis. But of course, washing with soap and water is essential after wading,” Quiñon added.
If someone has wounds to the feet, the PHO discouraged wading in floodwaters or swamps./PN
