ILOILO – Thirteen municipalities in Iloilo province have already recorded cases of leptospirosis since the start of the year, prompting provincial health authorities to warn residents — particularly farmers and laborers — to avoid contact with potentially contaminated floodwaters and muddy fields.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease transmitted through direct contact with the urine of infected animals or environments contaminated with urine.
Data from the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) showed that from January 1 to February 21 this year, the province logged 14 leptospirosis cases across 13 towns out of the 43 municipalities, including Passi City.
While the figure is 36 percent lower compared with the 22 cases recorded during the same period last year, health officials said vigilance remains crucial as the disease can quickly spread in areas exposed to contaminated water.
The leptospirosis bacteria can enter the body through cuts on the skin or through the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Early symptoms include high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, chills, eye redness, abdominal pain, jaundice, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
The municipalities that reported cases were Lambunao with two cases, while Alimodian, Barotac Nuevo, Barotac Viejo, Dueñas, Leganes, Leon, Maasin, New Lucena, Pavia, San Enrique, Sara, and Tigbauan recorded one case each.
IPHO head Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon reminded the public to be extra cautious, especially those who work in farms or frequently wade through water in fields and flooded areas where rat urine carrying the bacteria may be present.
“Makalikaw kita sa leptospirosis kon maghalong kita. Kon puede likawan ang pag-ubog sa talamnan, lamawan ukon sa tubig-baha,” Quiñon said.
She advised residents that if wading through floodwaters cannot be avoided, they should immediately wash exposed parts of the body with clean water and soap after contact.
For those with wounds on the feet or other parts of the body that were exposed to muddy fields or floodwaters, Quiñon urged them to seek immediate consultation at the nearest Rural Health Unit for medical evaluation and possible prophylaxis treatment.
The IPHO also reminded the public to keep homes and surroundings clean to prevent rats —known carriers of leptospirosis — from thriving in residential areas./PN
