Manila: The Department of Health (DOH) warned the public anew against the dangers of leptospirosis, a potentially life-threatening bacterial infection. In the past weeks, parts of the country experienced heavy downpours and widespread flooding due to tropical storms.
According to Philippines News Agency, the public is urged to exercise caution when wading through floodwaters, which may be contaminated with the urine of infected animals, particularly rats, the primary carriers of leptospira bacteria. The bacteria commonly enters the body through cuts or abrasions on the skin, or through the eyes, nose, or mouth. It is found in water, moist soil, or vegetation contaminated by the urine of infected animals. The risk significantly increases during floods, especially in urban areas with poor drainage and sanitation.
Leptospirosis symptoms typically appear in five to 14 days after exposure, and they include high fever, headache, muscle pain, red eyes, chills, vomiting or diarrhea, jaundice, and dark-colored urine. Severe cases may lead to kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, respiratory distress, or even death if left untreated.
The DOH strongly advises the following preventive measures: avoid wading in floodwaters, use waterproof boots and protective clothing if unavoidable, cover wounds properly, and wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and clean water. Monitor yourself for possible symptoms and consult a health professional if exposed to floodwaters. Take proper medication upon a doctor's prescription, maintain proper sanitation, and eliminate rat breeding grounds.
For prophylaxis, the DOH is recommending doxycycline 200 mg taken once a week for adults, under medical supervision, especially for individuals with high exposure to contaminated waters. For treatment of suspected or confirmed leptospirosis cases, doxycycline or other appropriate antibiotics may be prescribed depending on severity and patient condition. It is essential to complete the prescribed course to prevent complications. Earlier, the DOH said taking doxycycline without a doctor's prescription is dangerous, as improper or unnecessary use may lead to bacterial resistance.
The appropriate use of doxycycline depends on an individual's risk level and exposure to contaminated floodwater. The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation provides a benefit package of up to PHP21,450 for moderate to severe leptospirosis cases. Over the weekend, DOH latest data show it logged 3,037 leptospirosis cases from Jan. 1 to July 19.
Of the tally, about 1,114 cases were recorded since June 8, a week after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) declared the official start of the rainy season. The DOH hospitals recorded 569 cases from July 13 to 31. The East Avenue Medical Center in Quezon City logged the most number of leptospirosis cases with 32, followed by Sta. Ana Hospital in Manila City with 26 cases, and the National Kidney and Transplant Institute with 19 cases.
