Leptospirosis cases rise by 60% in NCR

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MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday noted a 60 percent spike in leptospirosis cases in the National Capital Region (NCR).

In a press briefing held at San Lazaro Hospital in Manila, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said that a total of 234 leptospirosis cases were recorded compared to last year’s 146 cases, covering January 1 to June 29.

Duque said topping the list of areas in NCR was Quezon City with 87 cases, followed by Manila with 25 cases, Taguig with 20, Caloocan and Parañaque with 18 each, Makati with 11, Las Piñas and Pasig City with 10 each.

Out of the 234 cases, 38 led to deaths and 22 of which were in Quezon City.

As of July 2, 2018 there were 22 cases of leptospirosis recorded in San Lazaro.

Duque said that the number of population has something to do with the rise in cases.

“Dahil mataas, (Because of high population) you expect that, relatively, (there will be) high number of leptospirosis cases,” he said.

He noted that when there is inefficient garbage collection, the rats are more likely to roam around and spread the leptospirae virus through the rodents’ urine which contaminates flood water, making people prone to getting the disease.

Those who were exposed who will experience symptoms have headache, fever, vomiting and redness of the eyes.

Untreated leptospirosis early on can result to kidney failure and damage to other organs such as liver.

“The fact that there were deaths is already a cause for alarm. But ang nakakalungkot nga dito (what is disheartening is), this is a preventable disease,” Duque said, noting those who have contracted the bacteria can still be treated if they consult with a physician immediately after getting the symptoms.

Meanwhile, Duque called on local chief executives to step-up their efforts to bring down the cases with preventive measures, like efficient garbage collection in their respective localities to prevent rodent infestation.

For its part, the DOH has prepositioned medicines, like Doxycycline, and other supplies for the treatment and management of leptospirosis cases.