DOH monitors cases of leptospirosis 2 weeks after massive flooding

Department of Health. INQUIRER FILES

MANILA, Philippines — Two weeks after the severe flooding caused by the enhanced southwest monsoon, locally termed “habagat,” the Department of Health (DOH) said it remains on guard for possible cases of leptospirosis across the country.

In a statement on Wednesday, it said that only 67 cases of leptospirosis have been recorded nationwide from July 14 to 27.

READ: Dengue cases in PH rise to 128,824 from Jan to July, says DOH

The DOH further said that the total number of recorded leptospirosis cases stood at 1,444 from January 1 to July 27, which is 42 percent lower than the 2,505 cases in the same period in 2023.

It further added that 162 deaths have been recorded for the same time period this year.

But epidemiologists are still cautious, as there are most likely to be delayed reports, the DOH noted.

The health department also said that the incubation period for leptospirosis may range from two to 30 days, with symptoms usually showing up around one to two weeks after exposure to flood waters.

READ: DOH again warns against leptospirosis

“Let us continue to amplify that flood waters are dirty and must be avoided. For those who have no choice but to wade, there is a widely available antibiotic prophylaxis by prescription,” said Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, as quoted in the statement.

“The price freeze for Doxycycline stays until September 23, and we have free capsules nationwide at government health centers and hospitals. Do not wait for symptoms to appear; consult a doctor or health center for prophylaxis within 24-48 hours after first wading through flood waters,” he added.