BACOLOD City — The City Health Office (CHO) has recorded a significant increase in leptospirosis cases in the first four months of 2026, with 12 cases and three deaths reported from January 1 to April 4.
Data from the CHO, covering Morbidity Weeks 1 to 13, showed a 200-percent increase compared to the same period last year, which logged only four cases and one death.
Cases were reported across several barangays, with Barangay Estefania recording two cases. Barangays Mandalagan, Sum-ag, Taculing, Singcang-Airport, Felisa, Banago, and Barangays 10, 16, 33, and 39 reported at least one case each.
Meanwhile, fatalities were recorded in Barangays Mandalagan, Estefania, and Felisa.
According to the CHO, the immediate cause of death among the fatalities was septic shock, with severe leptospirosis—particularly Weil’s disease, a critical form of the infection—identified as the underlying condition.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease caused by Leptospira species and is commonly transmitted through water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, especially rats. Infection can occur when contaminated water enters the body through the eyes, mouth, or open wounds, or is accidentally ingested, often during flooding.
Health officials warned that early symptoms may include fever, headache, chills, muscle pain, and red eyes. In severe cases, patients may develop jaundice, abdominal pain, vomiting, breathing difficulties, kidney failure, and altered mental status.
The CHO noted that the reported fatalities had a history of exposure to floodwaters or muddy environments, a known risk factor for infection.
Authorities are urging residents who may have been exposed to contaminated water or soil to seek immediate medical consultation at the nearest health center or with a private physician.
“Early detection and treatment are crucial. Delaying consultation can lead to severe complications and even death,” the CHO said.
Residents are also advised to take preventive measures such as avoiding wading in floodwaters, wearing protective footwear, covering open wounds, maintaining proper sanitation, and controlling rodent populations./PN
