BACOLOD City — The Sangguniang Panlungsod has passed a resolution urging the City Health Office (CHO) to immediately implement preventive measures against leptospirosis amid a concerning rise in cases in Negros Occidental.
Councilor Em Ang, author of the measure, said the resolution was prompted by reports from the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital (CLMMRH), which recorded an increase in leptospirosis admissions, many of which came from southern municipalities in the province.
With Bacolod also experiencing extensive flooding caused by Typhoons “Tino,” “Uwan,” and “Verbena” in recent weeks, the council warned that the city faces an elevated risk of further infections.
“Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial disease, and with the recent floods, the danger of transmission has significantly increased,” the resolution stated, emphasizing the city’s responsibility to protect public health.
Under the measure, the CHO is urged to launch a citywide information campaign to educate residents on the risks of leptospirosis and preventive steps such as avoiding contact with floodwaters and practicing proper sanitation.
The council also recommended the immediate disinfection of flood-affected areas using a 1:10 bleach solution, prioritizing flood-prone barangays where stagnant water remains.
The resolution further calls for close coordination among barangay officials, community leaders, and health workers to ensure the effective dissemination of information and support for disinfection efforts. Barangays are also to receive sanitation supplies and protective equipment to strengthen their preventive response.
Additionally, the council encouraged the city to closely monitor and report leptospirosis cases in coordination with hospitals and clinics to enable swift intervention should cases surge.
The Sangguniang Panlungsod reiterated its commitment to supporting health initiatives stemming from the resolution, affirming that the safety and well-being of Bacolodnons remains a top priority.
“This coordinated effort is essential to protect our communities and prevent an outbreak,” the council said./PN
