BACOLOD City – Three people have died from leptospirosis in this city as of May 31, 2025, according to data from the City Health Office (CHO).
From January 1 to May 31, the CHO recorded a total of nine leptospirosis cases, with three resulting in fatalities. This marks a 12.5% increase in cases compared to the same period last year, which saw eight cases and two deaths.
Barangays with confirmed cases include Banago (two cases), and Villamonte, Estefania, Barangay 12, Mansilingan, Bata, Handumanan, and Barangay 21 (one case each).
Dr. Grace Tan, head of the CHO’s Environmental Sanitation Division, confirmed that the fatalities were recorded in Villamonte, Banago, and Bata.
According to the initial data from CHO, the most recent death involved a 17-year-old male from Barangay Bata. Health authorities believe he was exposed to contaminated water when he swam in a river prior to his death during epidemiological week 22 (May 25-31).
Tan warned that the rainy season typically sees a rise in “WILD” diseases (waterborne diseases, influenza or flu, leptospirosis, and dengue).
She noted that delayed health-seeking behavior and denial of symptoms are the most common causes of complications and fatalities among leptospirosis patients.
Leptospirosis is typically contracted through contact with water or soil contaminated by urine of infected animals, particularly rodents. Common modes of transmission include splashes of contaminated water into the eyes, swallowing floodwater, or exposing open wounds to contaminated soil or water.
The CHO advises anyone who may have been exposed to contaminated floodwaters or soil to seek immediate medical consultation for prophylactic treatment at the nearest health center or private clinic.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira species and can lead to severe health complications if not treated early.
In response to the rising cases, the Bacolod City Council is urging the CHO to intensify its information and prevention campaign to mitigate the spread of the disease and protect public health./PN
