BACOLOD City – Continuing risk factors have caused an increase in cases of leptospirosis here by 204.5 percent as of Sept. 2 this year, a report of the City Health Office (CHO) on Monday, Sept. 11, showed.
There have been 67 suspected leptospirosis cases, including 12 deaths, compared to last year’s 22 cases, including five deaths.
“Some 70 percent of cases have declared exposure or contact with contaminated water or the ground,” Dr. Grace Tan, head of the CHO Environment Sanitation Division, said in the report.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by the Leptospira spirochetes bacteria contracted through the urine of infected animals, especially rats.
Exposure to flood waters can cause infection, especially in those with cuts, wounds, or abrasions on their skin.
Tan said delayed health-seeking behavior and denial of infection are the most common reasons for complications and death due to leptospirosis.
The two latest deaths were recorded from Aug. 27 to Sept. 2.
Barangays 16, Taculing, Banago, Handumanan, Villamonte, Bata, Pahanocoy, Granada, Singcang-Airport, and Tangub recorded one death each, while Barangay 14 had two.
Of the 12 deaths, the last three, whose ages ranged between 20 and 35, were exposed to flood or drainage water and contaminated water, the CHO report said.
In its advisory, residents were reminded to avoid wading or coming into contact with flood water or any damp, dirty ground, soil, or water, as this may have leptospira organisms.
The CHO also encouraged to take prophylaxis as soon as possible following exposure to possibly contaminated water or ground and consult immediately at the nearest health center.
Keep the environment clean at all times. Uncovered and unstored food and garbage is the best breeding ground for rats. Segregate and manage garbage appropriately,” it also said. “Be involved in the prevention and control of rat population control. Also, report to the barangay any uncovered manholes, ditches, open canals or septic vaults.” (PNA)/PN
