Community participation urged vs rising leptospirosis cases

MANILA, Philippines — With the uptick in leptospirosis cases in Metro Manila, Sen. Bong Go is calling for an increased community vigilance and a multifaceted approach to disease prevention.

Go, Senate health committee chair, emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy involving active community participation and the importance of community awareness about the risks of floodwater exposure and the critical need for early symptom recognition and medical consultation.

“Our alertness and readiness can save lives… Understanding the symptoms of leptospirosis and an immediate response are the keys to avoiding severe cases,” Go said.

Go also supported the proposal of the Department of Health to ban swimming in floodwaters.

Recent data showed over 60 percent of leptospirosis admissions at San Lazaro Hospital in Manila are either severe or moderate. SLH is treating 149 patients – a significant rise from previous averages. Many of these cases were exposed to bacteria during the flooding caused by Typhoon Carina, with many victims having swum in contaminated floodwaters.

Go reminded the public to use the Malasakit Center – a one-stop shop aimed at supporting impoverished patients, reducing hospital costs to the barest minimum. Go is the principal author of Republic Act 11463 or Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. The country now has 166 Malasakit Centers.