What is Leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira spirochetes that is transmitted by many animals such as rats, pigs, dogs, cattles and goats.
Last July 5, 2018, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, declared a Leptospirosis outbreak in the National Capital Region wherein from January 1 to June 3, 2018 in NCR alone 368 reported cases of Leptospirosis wherein 52 or 14% succumb to death. It was noted that the sudden increase of such cases from June 10 to July 3 which is 38% higher in the last five years. This is caused by the frequent flooding within the said areas.
What are the symptoms of a person affected by Leptospirosis?
The signs and symptoms of a person affected by the the bacteria includes flu or fever with muscle and leg pains. In severe cases, yellowish discoloration of the eyes and skin is visible with disposal of tea-colored urine.
Preventive measures from Leptospirosis
- Avoid wading in flooded areas or swimming in potentially contaminated waters.
- Use proper protection like boots if you are in a flooded area or gloves when work requires exposure to contaminated waters.
Treatment of a Person Infected with Leptospirosis
- Take antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor
- Early recognition and treatment within 2 days of illness creates complication and early consultation is advised.
DOH has alerted hospitals specially in NCR, to be prepared to admit and manage cases and appropriately refer them to specialty hospital if needed. DOH has also deployed additional medical personels to the National Kidney and Transplant Institute with equally adequate supply of drugs and medicines needed for the treatment.
Secretary Duque had ordered that persons with Lepto-like symptoms should be brought immediately to the nearest health care facility for proper diagnosis and treatment. Untreated cases may led to kidney failure or death.
Source: Department of Health
DOH Health Advisory
Save-a-Life, by being obserbant and concerned of the people around you. For emergency, you may call DOH Hotline number (02) 711 1001 and (02) 711 1002.
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