Leptospirosis outbreak seen in Negros Occidental

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — An outbreak of leptospirosis cases was reported in the 5th district of Negros Occidental, Rep. Emilio Bernardino Yulo III said yesterday.

Although Yulo, who represents the district in the House of Representatives, did not elaborate, he urged residents of Moises Padilla, La Castellana, Hinigaran, La Carlota, Isabela and Binalbagan towns as well as those of Himamaylan City to immediately seek medical help if they are experiencing leptospirosis symptoms.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection transmitted through contact with water or soil contaminated with animal urine. Its early symptoms include high fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, vomiting and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).

Severe cases can lead to kidney failure, liver damage and respiratory distress.

Aside from Yulo’s report, the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital here recorded an increase in patients admitted for leptospirosis, mostly coming from the southern part of the province.

The hospital’s public information office said at least eight “more severe and moderate” leptospirosis cases are being treated – a dramatic increase from the typical zero to two cases per month.

To address the surge, the hospital management will prioritize severe cases and establish dedicated wards for adult and pediatric patients to  ensure safe and timely care.

It also instructed referring facilities to coordinate with the hospital’s operations center and follow proper transfer protocols.

Yulo noted that many parts of Negros experienced flooding at the height of Typhoon Tino, which left more than 90 people dead and 40 others missing.