BACOLOD City – The number of leptospirosis-related deaths in this city has climbed to nine, according to the latest report from the City Health Office (CHO) as of November 22, out of a total of 50 recorded cases.
The two most recent fatalities were recorded during Morbidity Week covering November 16 to 22. The victims were a 30-year-old and a 16-year-old.
Barangays with the highest number of cases were Handumanan and Tangub with five each; Banago with four; Villamonte, Mansilingan, and Estefania with three each; and Felisa, Barangay 14, Alangilan, and Singcang-Airport with two each.
City Health Officer Dr. Ma. Carmela Gensoli said the recent typhoon that caused massive flooding in Bacolod significantly contributed to the sudden rise in leptospirosis cases.
“People cannot avoid wading through floodwaters when their homes are affected,” Gensoli said.
The CHO has been providing free prophylaxis — such as doxycycline and azithromycin — in evacuation centers and communities to residents who had waded in floodwaters as a preventive measure against the disease.
Gensoli urged residents to take prophylaxis immediately after exposure to floodwater to reduce the risk of infection.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira species. It spreads through water contaminated with the urine of infected animals, commonly rodents. Infection can occur through splashing contaminated water or urine into the eyes, accidental ingestion of contaminated water or floodwater, or contact of contaminated water or soil with open wounds.
The CHO advised anyone with a history of exposure to potentially contaminated water or ground to visit the nearest health center or consult a private physician as soon as possible for prophylaxis.
Symptoms of leptospirosis include sudden high fever, headache, chills, and muscle pain, especially in the calves and lower back./PN
