Manila: The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday said the country has logged 4,575 cases of leptospirosis from Jan. 1 to Sept. 7, eleven percent higher compared to the 4,112 cases recorded for the same period last year. Some 393 deaths were logged among the cases this year, which is 17 percent lower than the 475 deaths in the same period last year. While the overall tally of cases is higher this year, the DOH noted that there is a decreasing trend in leptospirosis cases in the recent weeks. "From 1,726 cases reported from July 28 to August 10, 2024, the number decreased by 77 percent to only 396 cases from August 11 to 24, 2024," the DOH said. "In the most recent one to two weeks (August 25 to September 7, 2024), the number has gone down further to just 124, but this may change due to incoming reports due to the recent typhoon and inclement weather," the agency said. In the past six weeks, only three regions logged an increase in cases - Central Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula and the Bangsamoro Autonomou s Region in Muslim Mindanao. The public is warned against the perils of wading in floodwaters. The DOH also commended the Metro Manila Council for issuing Metro Manila Development Authority Regulation No. 24-003, s. 2024 which prohibits swimming, playing, gallivanting and/or unnecessary wading or doing any other leisurely or unsuitable activities in floodwaters. The public is encouraged to practice good hygiene, proper care for wounds, avoid contact with floodwaters, wear protective footwear and wash exposed skin to reduce the risk of infection from leptospirosis. Those exposed to floodwaters, even without symptoms, are advised to seek medical consultation. Antibiotic prophylaxis is available for all at government health centers, the DOH said. Source: Philippines News agency