BULACAN — Five individuals have succumbed to leptospirosis in Bulacan, with recent flooding exacerbated by Super Typhoon Carina contributing to the outbreak, the Provincial Health Office-Public Health (PHO-PH) reported on Wednesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the fatalities were reported from the City of San Jose del Monte and the towns of Balagtas, Calumpit, and Obando following the typhoon's devastation on July 24. From the start of the year to August 10, Bulacan recorded 58 suspected cases of leptospirosis, a slight decrease from last year's figures during the same period. Despite this marginal decline, the governor emphasized the heightened risk due to the extensive flooding across the province, urging residents to maintain high standards of hygiene and environmental cleanliness to deter the disease's spread.
The PHO-PH has responded to the health crisis by distributing 57,000 capsules, or 570 boxes, of doxycycline across cities, municipalities, and public hospitals as a preventative measure against the bacterial infection. Leptospirosis, which can transmit through water contaminated by infected animal urine, poses symptoms including fever, muscle pain, and in severe cases, can lead to significant kidney damage. The governor's office continues to advocate for public vigilance and preventive healthcare to combat this public health threat effectively.