BACOLOD City — The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) has urged the City Health Office (CHO) and City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) to intensify public information campaigns and preventive measures against waterborne and vector-borne diseases as the rainy season continues.
The call was contained in a resolution approved by the city council during its regular session on August 5, authored by Councilor Em Legaspi Ang, chairperson of the Committee on Health and Sanitation.
The resolution cited CHO data showing a 200 to 225 percent increase in leptospirosis cases during the first four months of 2026. Three deaths were reportedly linked to severe leptospirosis, also known as Weil’s disease.
The council warned that increased rainfall, flooding and stagnant water could raise the risk of disease transmission, particularly in vulnerable communities.
The CHO has been monitoring what it calls “WILD” diseases — waterborne diseases, influenza, leptospirosis and dengue — which commonly become greater health concerns during the rainy season.
Although dengue cases reportedly declined earlier this year following the implementation of the city’s 5S campaign, the resolution identified Barangays Mansilingan, Singcang-Airport, Banago, Estefania and Mandalagan as areas that remain vulnerable to vector-borne and waterborne diseases.
The SP urged the CHO and CDRRMO to strengthen citywide information campaigns focusing on environmental sanitation, the risks of exposure to floodwater, early recognition of symptoms and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention.
It also called for targeted preventive measures, including the application of mosquito larvicide granules in drainage systems and the provision of free prophylactic medication, such as doxycycline, to individuals at risk of leptospirosis exposure.
The resolution noted that delayed health-seeking behavior and failure to recognize early symptoms could contribute to severe complications and death.
The city council also urged barangay health centers to ensure that residents are informed about available free medical consultations and preventive services, particularly in communities vulnerable to flooding and disease outbreaks./PN
