MANILA — Malacañang urged Filipinos exposed to floodwaters to immediately wash themselves and seek medical consultation as widespread flooding raises the risk of leptospirosis and other water-related diseases amid persistent heavy rains.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Health (DOH) to intensify preventive measures against diseases that could spread or worsen following prolonged rains and flooding in several parts of the country.
The Palace stressed that people should take precautions even if they do not immediately experience symptoms after wading through or coming into contact with floodwater.
“Basta nadikit o napalusong sa tubig baha, sinasadya man o hindi, agad na hugasan ng malinis na tubig at sabon ang katawan,” Castro said.
She said those exposed to floodwater should also undergo proper medical assessment instead of waiting for symptoms to develop.
“Kailangan din pong kumonsulta sa pinakamalapit na health center,” she added.
According to Castro, government health centers are providing free consultations and doxycycline as part of efforts to prevent leptospirosis among people exposed to contaminated floodwater.
She cautioned, however, that the antibiotic should not be taken by pregnant women and children aged 12 and below without medical supervision.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection commonly transmitted through water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, particularly rats. The bacteria can enter the body through cuts or abrasions in the skin or through the eyes, nose and mouth, making people who wade through contaminated floodwater particularly vulnerable.
Castro warned the public against delaying medical consultation when leptospirosis is suspected. Among the warning signs requiring immediate medical attention are fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes and reduced urine production.
The DOH has also opened Dengue Fast Lanes in government hospitals nationwide to speed up the assessment and treatment of patients suspected of having dengue, another disease whose incidence could become a concern during prolonged periods of rain.
Authorities are likewise preparing water containers and chlorine tablets for flood-affected communities to help ensure access to safe drinking water.
For households uncertain about the safety of their water supply, Castro recommended boiling water for two minutes after it reaches a rolling boil before drinking.
The Palace reiterated that early precaution and prompt medical consultation are crucial in preventing serious illness following exposure to floodwaters./PN
