ILOILO City – The public is reminded not to wade in floods amid episodes of monsoon rains that are enhanced by super typhoon “Ompong.”
Dr. Ma. Sophia Pulmones, head of the Local Health Support Division of Department of Health Region 6, said the public – especially those who have wounds – must avoid flooded areas so as to prevent leptospirosis infection.
The heavy downpours are expected to once again trigger floods in Western Visayas.
DOH on Friday reported that there were 313 cases of leptospirosis in Region 6 from January to Aug. 11 this year. Out of these, 39 led to death.
Pulmones said floodwater may be contaminated with the bacteria that cause leptospirosis.
“As much as possible, avoid contact with the flood because we do not know if the water is contaminated or not. If they cannot avoid it, they should use protective gears especially boots,” she stressed.
Pulmones particularly geared this reminder to farmers, who are prone to the bacterial infection.
“Even those who come in contact with animals like pigs or cattle, they should wash their feet or hands,” she added.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects both humans and animals. Humans become infected through direct contact with the urine of infected animals or with a urine-contaminated environment, according to the World Health Organization.
The bacteria enter the body through cuts or abrasions on the skin, or through the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose and eyes, it added.
In the early stages of the disease, symptoms include high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, chills, redness of the eyes, abdominal pain, jaundice, hemorrhages in the skin and mucous membranes, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash.
When these symptoms are seen after being exposed to floowater, one must immediately seek medical attention, Pulmones said. (With a report from PNA/PN)
