San Lazaro braces for new wave of leptospirosis cases

MANILA, Philippines — A new wave of leptospirosis infections is expected at the San Lazaro Hospital (SLH) following massive flooding across Metro Manila due to strong monsoon rains over the weekend.

In an advisory yesterday, the SLH said admission of leptospirosis patients would likely increase in the coming weeks.

“After the surge due to flooding on Aug. 17, the number of leptospirosis cases could possibly go up again after one to two weeks,” the hospital said.

SLH medical chief Dr. David Suplico said the hospital could possibly be confronted again with increased admission of leptospirosis patients.

“The number of leptospirosis cases is going down, but because of the widespread flooding on Aug. 29 and 30, this is another story,” Suplico said.

The SLH logged 50 leptospirosis admissions on Aug. 26 alone.

Latest hospital data showed that 16 leptospirosis cases were admitted on Monday.

As of Aug. 31, 162 leptospirosis cases have been recorded at the SLH, with 14 deaths.

Leptospirosis, which is caused by the bacteria leptospira, is transmitted through direct contact with the urine of infected animals such as rats and pigs, or with urine-contaminated floodwaters.

The Department of Health (DOH) reminded those who have waded in floodwaters to take a bath right away using soap and clean water. If symptoms manifest, people are advised to proceed to the nearest health center for medical assistance.

Early consultation is advised for proper assessment and prescription of doxycycline prophylaxis.

At least 3.1 million doxycycline capsules have been distributed by the DOH to health centers nationwide.