ILOILO – The Department of Health (DOH) in Western Visayas has raised the alarm over the heightened risk of leptospirosis as intermittent rains and possible flooding threaten to expose communities to this potentially life-threatening disease.
In a recent advisory, DOH Region 6 warned residents across the region to take extra precautions, emphasizing that leptospirosis is not solely linked to rat urine, as commonly believed.
The disease is caused by Leptospira bacteria, which can contaminate water and soil through the urine of infected animals, including dogs, pigs, cattle, and rodents.
The health department stressed that transmission can occur in several ways: through broken skin exposed to contaminated floodwaters, accidental ingestion of tainted food or water, and even by splashing dirty water into the eyes, nose, or mouth.
DOH listed key symptoms to watch out for, including fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, red eyes, nausea or vomiting, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), and abdominal pain. Untreated leptospirosis can result in severe complications such as kidney failure, meningitis, liver damage, or even death.
To prevent infection, the public is advised to:
* avoid wading or swimming in floodwaters
* wear boots and gloves if exposure to dirty water is unavoidable
* ensure proper garbage disposal to minimize rat infestation
* wash thoroughly with soap and clean water after exposure to contaminated areas
* maintain good sanitation at home and ensure safe drinking water
DOH-6 reiterated the importance of early consultation at health facilities should symptoms arise, noting that timely medical attention can prevent serious complications.
The agency is intensifying monitoring efforts in flood-prone communities as part of its proactive disease surveillance./PN
