7, 234 leptospirosis cases logged this year

MANILA, Philippines — Up to 7,234 cases of leptospirosis have been recorded in the country this year, according to the Department of Health.

DOH data showed the figure, which was recorded from January to Nov. 23, is 19 percent higher than the 6,058 cases reported during the same period last year.

Health experts blamed the increase on several typhoons that battered the country in October, which brought heavy rains and massive flooding.

Health authorities said the number of leptospirosis cases reported from Oct. 27 to Nov. 9 increased by more than 100 percent, or to 594 from 234 recorded from Oct. 13 to 26.

Despite the significant increase in the cases, the fatality rate decreased to 9.12 percent this year from 10.83 percent in 2023.

The decrease in the fatality rate was attributed to an improved case management as authorities have anticipated typhoons to cause massive flooding in several areas.

The DOH stressed the importance of washing with soap and water once a person was exposed to floodwaters to prevent contracting leptospirosis.

The agency said seeking immediate medical help is important for proper assessment and prescription of prophylaxis.

Symptoms of leptospirosis include fever, vomiting, nausea, muscle pain, headache and reddish eyes.

In severe cases, symptoms include skin discoloration, dark and low urine ouput, light stool and headache.

Meanwhile, the DOH is closely monitoring cases of respiratory infection, particularly influenza-like illnesses, which usually affect people, especially the elderly during December.

Up to 161,555 cases of influenza-like illnesses have been reported nationwide as of Nov. 23. The figure is 18 percent lower than the 196,045 cases recorded during the same period in 2023.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa urged the public to take preventive measures against influenza-like illnesses such as frequent handwashing, wearing face masks when sick, observing proper cough etiquette and seeking professional help.