EVEN as the Department of Health (DOH) responds to the rise in leptospirosis cases due to floods from Typhoon Carina and the enhanced Habagat last July 24, it also continues to monitor and support local governments as they respond to the seasonal rise in Dengue cases.
A little over two weeks after Typhoon Carina and an enhanced Southwest monsoon (Habagat) caused flooding in several areas nationwide, the DOH has been navigating Leptospirosis patients in Metro Manila to available beds via the DOH Lepto Referral Lines (02) 8531-0037 and (0920) 283-2758.
The most recent epidemiologic data recorded 255 new Leptospirosis cases from July 21 to August 3. This is 17% higher than the 217 cases recorded in the previous weeks before (July 7 to 20). Since the start of 2024 until August 3, the total number of recorded Leptospirosis cases nationwide is now 2,115. It may be lower by 23% compared to 2,757 casrs reported in the same period last year, but DOH epidemiologists continue to be cautious in interpreting trends as there may be late reports. Also, the incubation period of leptospirosis ranges from 2 to 30 days, with a clinically observed average of 7-14 days. Two hundred and twenty four (224) deaths have also been recorded for the same time period this year.
“The surge in Leptospirosis cases is not a communication problem, it’s a behavior problem. We need a change in behavior. I’d like to discuss with the Department of Education how to teach children early on that they should not swim in flood waters. I’d also like to discuss with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority how to improve solid waste management, because rats live in garbage and rats are the reason for Leptospirosis,” said Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa.
The DOH continues to advise that antibiotic prophylaxis against Leptospirosis is widely available by prescription. The price freeze for Doxycycline stays until September 23, and there are free capsules nationwide at government health centers and hospitals. Those who had contact with flood waters should not wait for symptoms to appear. Consult a doctor or health center immediately.
Meanwhile, national data as of August 3, 2024 (Morbidity Week 31) listed a total of 136,161 Dengue cases, 33% higher compared to the 102,374 cases in the same period last year. Fewer Dengue deaths continue to be recorded this year (n=364) compared to last year (n=401) for the same time period. The DOH sees the lower number of deaths this year (despite the higher number of cases) as an indication of people seeking early consultation, and hospitals doing better case management.
The Department continues to advise the public of its 4S strategy against Dengue as cases are still on an uptrend. By law, the declaration of local disease outbreaks must come from provincial, city, or municipal authorities (see Sec. 7 of Republic Act No. 11332). DOH continues to discuss with local epidemiology and surveillance units (ESUs) to provide sufficient scientific evidence so that they may advise their local chief executives (Governors or Mayors) on the best available response.
“Lower deaths despite higher cases means our campaigns are working. Let us continue to seek early consultation for symptoms that may already be Dengue. Let us also keep cleaning our surroundings – search and destroy mosquito breeding grounds: anything with stagnant water,” added the Health Chief.
