ILOILO – With the threat of leptospirosis rising in flood-hit communities, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) have mobilized a full-scale health and emergency response to protect residents amid the prolonged rains triggered by the enhanced southwest monsoon and recent tropical cyclones.
As of July 24, the IPHO has deployed 43 health emergency response teams across the province and activated 24/7 health centers, particularly birthing facilities, to respond to medical needs in evacuation centers and flood-stricken areas.
The office also reported that essential medicines such as Doxycycline and other prophylactics for leptospirosis are being distributed to municipalities.
“We have already prepositioned medicines, and LGUs have started collecting stocks from our supply room,” said IPHO chief Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon. “More are scheduled to pick up their supplies tomorrow.”
Quiñon urged residents exposed to floodwaters — especially those with open wounds — to visit the nearest primary care facility, health center, or barangay health station to receive preventive treatment for leptospirosis. The bacterial infection, commonly transmitted through contact with rat urine-contaminated floodwater, can enter the body through cuts or mucous membranes.
“A warning to parents — do not allow children to play or swim in floodwaters,” Quiñon stressed. “They could swallow contaminated water or get it in their eyes. This could cause leptospirosis.”
Child exposure to floodwater has been observed, prompting concerns about the increased vulnerability of children to waterborne diseases.
To further bolster the province’s calamity preparedness, the IPHO is coordinating with the PDRRMO and the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) to collect data on affected populations and deliver appropriate health and relief services.
The PDRRMO also reported that 11,514 food packs have been readied for distribution, while the Camp Management Committee and Psychosocial Team remain on standby to support displaced families.
Other government agencies have also ramped up readiness: the Philippine National Police (PNP) is on alert for rescue operations, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has prepositioned disaster response equipment and 1,250 personnel, and the Philippine Coast Guard has 13 deployable response teams with floating assets and rescue gear.
The PDRRMO Operations Center continues to monitor the evolving weather conditions across Iloilo Province. With the enhanced southwest monsoon still affecting large parts of the country, authorities are warning of sustained rainfall and possible new floods.
Residents are strongly advised to stay alert, follow official weather bulletins, and prioritize health and safety as the province remains under heightened disaster response./PN
