BY IME SORNITO
ILOILO City – With intermittent rains and flooding becoming more frequent, the Department of Health (DOH) Region 6 has raised a health alert over the increasing risk of leptospirosis, urging the public to seek immediate medical attention after exposure to floodwaters.
Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial infection transmitted through water contaminated with the urine of infected animals.
Humans may contract the disease through open wounds or via the eyes, nose, or mouth. Early symptoms include high fever, headache, muscle pain, chills, red eyes, abdominal pain, jaundice, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
“In this season of unpredictable weather, the DOH Western Visayas reminds the public to be cautious of illnesses brought about by exposure to floodwaters, especially leptospirosis,” the department stated in a social media advisory.
DOH-6 urged residents who have waded through floods — especially those with cuts or wounds on their feet — to immediately consult the nearest Rural Health Unit (RHU) to receive prophylactic treatment that can help prevent infection.
“If you or a family member has been exposed to floodwater, go to the nearest RHU,” the department advised.
To prevent the spread of leptospirosis, DOH-6 recommended the following measures:
* Avoid wading or swimming in dirty or flooded waters;
* Use boots or gloves when contact with contaminated water is unavoidable;
* Practice proper waste disposal to reduce rodent population;
* Wash thoroughly with clean water and soap after exposure;
* Ensure drinking water is clean and safe;
* Keep homes and surroundings clean.
From January 1 to May 17, 2025, Iloilo Province recorded 41 leptospirosis cases and one death — a 9% decrease from the same period in 2024, which saw 45 cases and one fatality.
Out of 43 local government units including Passi City, 21 municipalities have reported cases so far. The areas with the highest number of infections are Pototan (4), Alimodian (3), Passi City (3), Dumangas (3), Sara (3, with one death), Badiangan (2), Calinog (2), Estancia (2), Leganes (2), and Leon (2).
Eleven other towns have also recorded cases: Maasin (2), Pavia (2), San Miguel (2), Santa Barbara (2), and one case each in Barotac Viejo, Batad, Dueñas, Igbaras, Janiuay, Lambunao, and Oton.
The DOH emphasized that the fight against leptospirosis is not only a medical concern but also a matter of public sanitation and disaster preparedness./PN
