BACOLOD City — Leptospirosis cases in Bacolod City have surged by 225 percent, with infections reported in at least 12 barangays and deaths linked to severe complications of the disease, according to the City Health Office (CHO).
CHO data showed 13 cases recorded from January 1 to April 18, 2026 (Morbidity Weeks 1 to 15), including three deaths. This is significantly higher than the four cases and one fatality recorded during the same period last year.
Health officials said the immediate cause of death among the fatalities was septic shock, with severe leptospirosis—particularly Weil’s disease—identified as the underlying condition.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira species, commonly transmitted through water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, especially rats. Infection may occur when contaminated water enters the body through the eyes, mouth, or open wounds, or is accidentally ingested—often during flooding.
Assistant City Health Officer Dr. Grace Tan, head of the Environmental Sanitation Division, said early symptoms include fever, headache, chills, muscle pain, and red eyes.
If left untreated, the disease can progress to serious complications such as jaundice, kidney failure, breathing difficulties, and altered mental status.
Tan noted that the reported fatalities had a history of exposure to floodwaters or muddy environments, which are known risk factors for infection.
Cases have been recorded in several barangays, with Estefania reporting two cases. At least one case each was logged in Mandalagan, Sum-ag, Taculing, Singcang-Airport, Felisa, Banago, Barangays 10, 16, 33, and 39. The latest case was reported in Barangay Vista Alegre.
The surge has raised concern at the Sangguniang Panlungsod, which earlier flagged a more than 200 percent increase in cases as of April 4, 2026.
Councilor Em Ang, chairperson of the committee on health and sanitation, warned that the spike poses a serious threat to public safety and requires immediate and coordinated intervention.
In response, the City Council passed a resolution urging the CHO to intensify efforts in coordination with the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), the City Veterinary Office (CVO), and all 61 barangays.
Authorities are ramping up public awareness campaigns focused on prevention, early detection, and proper treatment of leptospirosis.
Residents are advised to avoid wading in floodwaters, use protective gear when exposure is unavoidable, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.
The CHO emphasized that early diagnosis and treatment are critical to preventing severe complications and deaths./PN
