GRATEFUL, but, at the same time, unnerved, that health authorities have opened to date at least 19 specialized “fast lanes” for leptospirosis cases in the metropolis, where 13 million people live, which piteously reeled under floodwaters for weeks since June.
But the hat tip for the quick response by the Department of Health comes with a mix feeling of anxiety as we note leptospirosis cases have surged nationwide, with 2,396 infections recorded from June 8 to Aug. 7, according to the Dept. of Health.
The figures are a mighty leap from annual figures available in the past years: In 2020, there were 182 reported cases, followed by 1661 cases in 2021, and 2794 cases in 2022.
In the recent past, according to health authorities, more than 810 cases were reported from Jan. 1 to March 4, 2023. The Cagayan Valley Region had 103 cases, the Zamboanga Peninsula 77 cases, and the Western Visayas Region 176 cases.
We acknowledge the quick response of the Department of Health which opened specialized leptospirosis “fast lanes” in select government hospitals nationwide to provide quicker risk assessments, evaluation and treatment for patients exposed to floodwaters and suspected of having the illness.
Doctors assess if hospitalization is needed and they determine the appropriate use of doxycycline, an antibiotic used to prevent or treat leptospirosis.
But what is leptospirosis? This is caused by an infection with the spirochete bacterium, most often spread through exposure to the urine of infected animals either from direct contact or from contact with soil or water contaminated by the urine.
Health authorities are urging the public, especially those with open wounds, to avoid wading in floodwaters – which are recurrent in this typhoon-lashed country during the rainy season of six months.
Atuhorities advise those with symptoms to go to to these “fast lanes” for immediate consultation with a doctor who can provide preventive medicine or measures.
People are also advised to avoid animals that could have leptospirosis. Wearing protective clothing and shoes if they work with or around animals or they must wear protective shoes and clothing if they have to be in contact with water or soil that might be contaminated with bacteria.
Authorities also advise the masses to keep rodents away by putting food, water, and trash in closed containers, and trapping rodents.
Better yet, avoid wading in floodwaters during the inundation.
