Leptospirosis Cases Surge in Quezon City
Quezon City has reported a sharp rise in leptospirosis cases and deaths this year, officials reported. The city’s health department confirmed that as of August 27, there have been 74 fatalities related to leptospirosis, more than double the number recorded during the same period last year.
Dr. Patricia Anne Bonifacio, representing the Quezon City health authorities, shared during a recent forum that the 74 deaths mark a significant increase compared to 2024 figures. “The number of deaths this year has more than doubled compared to last year. So, this year, as of Aug. 27, we have reported 74 leptospirosis-related deaths throughout the city,” she said.
Rising Infections Linked to Floodwaters
Health officials also revealed that 521 leptospirosis cases have been recorded in Quezon City from January to late August, a 26 percent increase from last year. Community members noted that most infections are linked to contact with floodwaters.
Dr. Bonifacio emphasized that 79 percent of those infected had exposure to flood or contaminated water. “This means that four out of five people who had leptospirosis went into the floodwaters,” she explained.
She urged residents to avoid floodwaters whenever possible to reduce infection risk. “So, this is a big factor in our preventive efforts. If there is a flood, as much as possible, we should avoid going into the flood. If it is not possible, we should use Custom Protective Care so that we do not get this disease,” Bonifacio advised.
Early Medical Intervention is Crucial
Officials stressed the importance of early consultation for those exposed to floodwaters. Health centers across the city offer free checkups and medicines to prevent leptospirosis complications.
“Within 48 hours, we remind QCitizens to go to health centers to get prophylactic medicine. Medicine against leptospirosis is available at all health centers,” Bonifacio said. She added that a medical assessment is necessary before taking medicine to ensure proper usage.
Leptospirosis Cases in Schools
Meanwhile, the Quezon City Schools Division reported two leptospirosis cases among students since classes resumed in June, with one resulting in death. Dr. Nestor Dumacas from the Department of Education’s medical unit explained that the fatality was likely due to a severe form of the disease causing pulmonary respiratory failure.
“There were only two of them and one died. I don’t know. Maybe he got the severe form of leptospirosis. That’s why he died due to pulmonary respiratory failure,” Dumacas said in Filipino.
To combat this, the schools’ division continues to conduct awareness campaigns, educating students about the dangers of leptospirosis and encouraging them to avoid floodwater exposure during the rainy season.
Preventive Measures and Public Awareness
Local leaders emphasized the need for continued public education on preventive measures. Avoiding contact with floodwaters, using protective gear, and seeking immediate medical attention after exposure remain key strategies to curb the rise of leptospirosis cases.
Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and utilize government health resources to protect themselves and their families from this potentially fatal disease.
For more news and updates on leptospirosis cases, visit Filipinokami.com.
