Leptospirosis Outbreak Claims 43 Lives Amid Surge in Cases, DOH Reports

Manila-The Department of Health (DOH) has reported a significant surge in leptospirosis cases with 43 deaths occurring over the past three weeks. This recent spike brings the total to 523 new cases recorded between August 8 and 13, following heavy rains from Super Typhoon Carina and an enhanced southwest monsoon that caused widespread flooding in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjacent areas.

According to Philippines News agency, these new cases are in addition to 255 earlier reports, marking a worrying increase in infections. The majority of the cases are adults, constituting 81% of the total, while children make up 19%. Critical care needs are high, with eight patients on mechanical ventilators and 243 undergoing dialysis. The DOH has taken measures to increase hospital capacity to handle the influx, including the setup of additional beds in unconventional spaces like gymnasiums to ensure all patients receive necessary care. Domingo emphasized the importance of seeking prompt medical attention for symptoms of leptospirosis, especially after exposure to floodwaters, to mitigate the risk of fatalities.