Leptospirosis cases spike in Quezon City, urgent measures taken

As the number of leptospirosis cases surges in Quezon City, local authorities are striving to forge a formidable fight against the inflicting illness. Just yesterday, a staggering increase was noted, with ten reported cases in a single day. To counteract this health predicament, Mayor Maria Josefina ‘Joy’ Belmonte coordinated with the chief of the city’s Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance Unit (CESU), Dr Rolando Cruz, to reinforce the campaign against this menacing malady.

“The observation of ten cases in one day on August 1 calls for swift preventative actions,” said Mayor Belmonte. “To combat this predicament, we implore the cooperation of all relevant entities, particularly the barangay officials, in synchronising efforts with our health department.”

Antibiotics have been rolled out in barangay healthcare centres to keep the disease under control. Moreover, these necessary provisions have also been afforded to the city’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office’s frontline staff.

Dr Cruz iterated that giving antibiotics as a prophylactic measure to individuals at high risk – particularly those with a history of wading in floodwaters – is vital to decrease infection probability. He maintained, “This will also serve as preliminary treatment for leptospirosis-diagnosed individuals.”

Furthermore, he stressed the importance of early diagnosis to avoid severe repercussions that entail hospitalization. The city officials have urged at-risk residents, distinctively those who experience fever after exposure to floodwaters, to immediately visit their nearest barangay health centre for assessment and apt treatment reported Manila Times.

According to CESU, a notable increase in leptospirosis cases was observed over the past fortnight, with 26 cases reported from July 22 to August 4. The city government emphasised the significance of preventive measures including steering clear of wading or swimming in floodwaters and donning protective gear, such as boots, gloves, and masks during floods.

“People must bear in mind that leptospirosis can be contracted from ingestion of contaminated food or water, or when the bacteria find their way into the body via the mouth, nose and eyes; or through open wounds and cuts,” warned Dr Cruz. His caution drew attention to the fact that the disease is transmitted through the urine or faeces of infected animals, predominantly rats.