The Department of Health said that the number of leptospirosis cases in the National Capital Region has doubled. According to the Regional Epidemiology Surveillance Unit’s data a total of 583 leptospirosis cases with 48 deaths were recorded from January 1 to November 12.It also showed that the current cases were 247 percent higher compared to the same period last year, when the department recorded 168 cases with 13 deaths.
The records said that majority of the cases were male and belonged to the age group from 15 years old to 30 years old.
The Quezon City and Manila remained the top cities with the most number of leptospirosis cases with 103 and 137, respectively, the data showed.
Preventive measure - Dr. Eduardo Janairo, Department of Health regional director for Metro Manila, said that the agency is advising the public to control and suppress rodent infestations to prevent the spread of leptospirosis at home.
“Everyone should avoid contact with rodents, remove their food sources, water, and items that could provide them shelter. Seal holes inside and outside our homes in order to prevent their entry. Keep them outside our homes so that they will not multiply within the household. Let us also clean up potential rodent food sources outside and destroy their nesting sites,” said Janairo.
Leptospirosis is an infection commonly transmitted to humans from water that has been contaminated by animal urine—usually rats—and comes in contact with lesion in the skin, eyes, or with the mucous membranes. It appear four to 14 days after exposure to contaminated flood waters or even mud.
The leptosporosis’ signs and symptoms include fever, chills, and intense headache. In extreme cases, complications like meningitis, renal failure, respiratory distress, may arise and lead to death.
“Rodents such as rats and mice are the primary carriers of the leptospirosis virus. It is important to identify the signs of rodent’s infestation at home. If you regularly see rodent droppings around food packages, in drawers or cupboards, and/or under the sink then your house is infested,” Janairo said.
The health agency also advised the use of traps or rodenticides to remove and eliminate rodents at home. A tracking powder may also be used.
“As a precautionary measure, always place traps, baits and rodent tracking powder in places where children and pets cannot reach them. Use rodenticide products according to label directions and precautions. And also be sure to select traps that are appropriate to the type and size of rodent, such as rat or mouse. Always endeavour to keep our home safe from diseases. Prevention is still the best solution,” Janairo said.
By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz
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