Leptospirosis Cases Drop Despite Rainy Season Challenges
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) reported a notable decline in leptospirosis cases in the country, even as the rainy season continues. The four-word keyphrase leptospirosis cases drop was emphasized as officials shared the latest data covering August 17 to 22.
According to health authorities, the number of leptospirosis cases drop by 18 compared to previous weeks. This marks a significant improvement from the 1,112 cases recorded shortly after typhoons Crising, Dante, and Emong struck from August 3 to 9, local sources noted.
Hospital Admissions Reflect Declining Cases
Health officials reported that several DOH hospitals have seen fewer leptospirosis admissions in recent days. For example, the DOH-Tondo Medical Center admitted only seven new patients as of August 21, a sharp decrease from the peak of 68 daily admissions in previous weeks, community members said.
Similarly, the National Kidney Transplant Institute recorded just one new admission this week, down from the highest daily figure of 25. The DOH-East Avenue Medical Center also reported zero new admissions this week, a remarkable drop from the previous daily high of 21, officials shared.
Hospitals Remain Vigilant Despite Decline
Despite the encouraging drop in leptospirosis cases, health authorities remain vigilant. DOH hospitals continue to operate their Leptospirosis Fast Lanes and maintain bed capacity to accommodate any surge in patients during the rainy season, sources confirmed.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa reminded hospital staff that refusing patients is strictly prohibited. He reiterated the importance of the zero balance billing policy for basic accommodation to ensure care remains accessible to all, officials reported.
Public Advised to Avoid Floodwater Exposure
In an interview over a local radio station, Secretary Herbosa urged the public to avoid contact with floodwaters whenever possible. He emphasized the protective role of footwear, advising people not to remove their shoes when crossing flooded areas.
“Don’t take off your shoes. Others take off their shoes and then jump in. Your shoes are the protection for your feet against lepto. That’s protection… if you get injured, that’s it, you’ll get lepto,” Herbosa said in Filipino.
Leptospirosis Cases Since Rainy Season Start
From June 8, a week after the rainy season was declared, up to August 21, the DOH recorded a total of 4,436 leptospirosis cases nationwide. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as seasonal rains persist, local leaders noted.
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