FILE PHOTO: Staff of the Quezon City Health Department administer doxycycline to prevent leptospirosis, provide medication for those who are ill, and distribute vitamins to residents in evacuation centers affected by the strong southwest monsoon, as boosted by Typhoon Carina (international name: Gaemi), on July 25, 2024. | Photo: QCGov/X
MANILA, Philippines — Leptospirosis patients are increasing with 255 fresh cases recorded from July 21 to August 3, the Department of Health (DOH) said Tuesday.
The agency said the number of new leptospirosis cases is 17 percent higher than the 217 logged from July 7-20.
From January to August 3, nationwide leptospirosis cases stood at 2,115, including 224 deaths, based on the latest report of DOH, which noted, however, that the total is still 25 percent lower than the 2,757 cases reported in the same period last year.
Nevertheless, the DOH said its epidemiologists continue to be cautious in interpreting trends as there may be late reports. It further pointed out that the incubation period for the disease ranges from two to 30 days.
READ: Make plans for leptospirosis surge, DOH tells hospitals
“The surge in Leptospirosis cases is not a communication problem, it’s a behavior problem. We need a change in behavior. I’d like to discuss with the Department of Education how to teach children early on that they should not swim in flood waters,” Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said in a DOH statement Tuesday.
“I’d also like to discuss with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority how to improve solid waste management because rats live in garbage and rats are the reason for Leptospirosis,” he added.
READ: DOH monitors cases of leptospirosis 2 weeks after massive flooding
The illness is caused by the bacteria Leptospira, which humans can get when they touch water, soil, or other objects contaminated with infected animal urine.
The DOH reiterated that antibiotic prophylaxis doxycycline that is used against leptospirosis is widely available although a prescription is needed to obtain it.
It also said that price freeze for doxycycline remains in effect until September 23, and that the medicine may be availed for free at government health centers and hospitals nationwide.