Leptospirosis Fatalities Rise in Bacolod City
BACOLOD CITY – The City Health Office (CHO) has reported a third leptospirosis fatality this year—a 17-year-old boy from Barangay Bata. Health officials confirmed that the victim, who had recently swum in a river, showed symptoms of fever, muscle weakness, and leg pain before passing away last May. This tragic loss highlights the ongoing threat of leptospirosis in Bacolod City.
Dr. Grace Tan, head of the CHO Environment and Sanitation Division, stated that the boy was hospitalized for only one day before his death. “The victim was a resident of Barangay Bata and had a history of swimming in a river,” she said. This case marks the third leptospirosis death recorded in the city this year.
Recent Cases and Fatalities in Bacolod
Earlier deaths included a 52-year-old drainage cleaner from Barangay Villamonte in January and a 47-year-old man from Barangay Banago in April. So far, Bacolod City has logged nine confirmed leptospirosis cases as of May 31. These cases occurred across various barangays: two in Banago and one each in Barangays 12, 21, Villamonte, Mansilingan, Estefania, Handumanan, and Bata.
Health authorities noted a 12.5 percent increase in leptospirosis cases from May 25 to 31 compared to last year’s same period, which recorded eight cases and two deaths. This rise is alarming and calls for heightened public awareness and preventive action.
Health Warnings and Precautions
Local officials urge residents to exercise caution when wading through floodwaters or dirty water sources. Leptospirosis, a bacterial disease often spread through water contaminated by animal urine, can lead to severe complications and death if untreated. “Mag-amping gyud ta labi na kung naa tay kaligoan sa suba o baha,” local leaders reminded.
The City Health Office continues to monitor the situation closely and encourages the public to report symptoms early for prompt medical attention. Awareness campaigns and sanitation measures are underway to reduce the risk of infection.
For more news and updates on leptospirosis, visit Filipinokami.com.
