Leptospirosis kills 5 more in Zambo City

ZAMBOANGA CITY - At least five people have died from leptospirosis and 19 others have been admitted to different hospitals in this city this month, the local health office said Tuesday.

City health officer Dr. Rodeline Agbulos said the latest deaths has brought the total leptospirosis fatalities in the city this year to 20. A total of 60 people have also been hit by leptospirosis from January until October.

Agbulos noted that the latest fatalities were residents of areas that were flooded by monsoon rains early this month.

He said at least seven leptospirosis patients have been discharged and a number of people remained in confinedin hospitals.

The Department of Health had warned of the possibility of a leptospirosis outbreak in the city due to heavy flooding that struck several villages during the first week of the month.

The massive flooding followed the 22-day standoff between the military and the Moro National Liberation Front that displaced thousands of the city's residents.