ILOILO City – In a race against a potential leptospirosis outbreak, the city government has begun the emergency distribution of doxycycline in five flood-hit barangays as a preventive measure against the deadly bacterial infection.
“As we continue to receive reports on the effects of flooding in parts of the city, we have issued a directive to the CHO to distribute doxycycline as a preventive measure against leptospirosis,” said Mayor Raisa Treñas, following her order for the City Health Office to act urgently.
Targeted for the rollout are the Jaro district barangays of Camalig, Balantang, Tagbak, Lanit, and Buntatala — all of which experienced serious flooding over the past week. These areas are now the focus of intensified health interventions amid increased public health risks.
“We urge residents in the affected areas to cooperate with health teams and take the medication as protection,” Treñas said.
Doxycycline, an antibiotic recommended by health authorities, is used to prevent leptospirosis — a potentially fatal bacterial disease that spreads through floodwaters contaminated by the urine of infected animals, especially rats.
Infection risk spikes after prolonged exposure to stagnant floodwaters, particularly in areas with poor drainage and sanitation.
The CHO has mobilized health workers to the identified barangays to ensure swift and organized distribution of the medicine, which the city says is part of its broader health risk mitigation and disaster response strategy.
“We continue to coordinate with barangay officials and health authorities to safeguard public health,” the mayor added, stressing the importance of early detection and treatment. “Watch for symptoms. If you feel anything unusual, consult a health worker immediately.”
Leptospirosis symptoms include high fever, muscle aches, vomiting, headaches, and in severe cases, complications such as kidney damage, liver failure, or meningitis.
The city government said it is currently assessing other flood-prone areas for potential inclusion in subsequent waves of prophylactic intervention. Residents are urged to stay alert and follow official public health advisories through the Iloilo City Government and City Health Office social media platforms./PN