Leptospirosis cases in QC reach 207 with 24 deaths as of Aug. 3
The Quezon City government on Thursday asked residents to avoid wading in floods due to the risk of leptospirosis infection as it reported 207 cases and 24 deaths from Jan. 1 to Aug. 3 this year.
It reminded the public to “continue to be cautious” even though the figure was 15 percent lower compared to the same period last year.
“Based on data, the main cause of the disease is wading in floodwater or dirty water contaminated with rat and other animal urine. With the continuous rains and flooding caused by recent typhoons and the southwest monsoon, the risk of infection has increased, especially in low-lying areas,” it said.
Leptospirosis affected residents from age 5 to 75, most of whom were men between 41 and 50 years old.
Case breakdown
In July alone, 115 new cases were recorded, with 85 percent of patients seeking medical attention three or more days after the onset of symptoms.
The city government advised those who have been exposed to floodwaters to visit the nearest health center for free consultation and prophylactic medication.
For updates and more information, residents may follow the Quezon City Epidemiology and Surveillance Division’s official Facebook page or contact (02) 87032759, 0962-2747107, or (02) 89884242 local 1609.
