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Philippines Sees 19% Drop in Leptospirosis Cases Amid Ongoing Flooding
Leptospirosis cases in the Philippines have decreased by 19% compared to last year, despite ongoing heavy flooding across the country. The Department of Health attributes this decline partly to government intervention measures and assures preparedness in medical supplies.
MALACAÑANG said leptospirosis cases have fallen 19% from last year’s tally, even as heavy flooding continues to hit parts of the country. Palace Press Officer Clarissa A. Castro said Health Secretary Edwin M. Mercado reported the update during President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s meeting with disaster-response agencies, noting that last year’s case count reached 7,187, a decline she attributed partly to government intervention measures. Ms. Castro said the Department of Health (DoH) remains prepared in terms of medicine supply for those infected. She added that the National Kidney and Transplant Institute is currently at full capacity for leptospirosis cases, with the Philippine General Hospital providing additional support. Patients may also seek treatment at private hospitals through PhilHealth packages, while DoH hospitals have set up fast lanes for leptospirosis patients, she said. As of Aug. 22, the DoH had recorded a total of 4,235 leptospirosis cases nationwide, according to an earlier department report. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking
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