THE Department of Health (DOH) has issued a warning to the public about the heightened risk of leptospirosis due to widespread flooding caused by persistent rains from the southwest monsoon or “habagat.”
“Huwag maglaro at iwasang lumusong sa baha. Mapanganib ang mga mikrobyo mula sa mga basura at dumi na maaring magdulot ng leptospirosis (Do not play in or wade through floodwaters. Germs from garbage and waste can cause leptospirosis),” the DOH said in a public advisory.
The agency explained that leptospirosis is a serious bacterial infection caused by Leptospira, which can enter the body through open wounds or mucous membranes and lead to severe health complications.
“Maaaring magkaroon ng komplikasyon sa atay, bato, at puso ang taong mapapasukan ng mikrobyong leptospira sa katawan (The leptospira bacteria can cause complications in the liver, kidneys, and heart),” it added.
The DOH advised individuals who have no choice but to wade through floodwaters to take immediate precautions.
“Kung sakaling malulubog sa baha, agad na maghugas ng katawan gamit ang tubig at sabon. Agad ding kumonsulta sa doktor kung lumusong sa baha nang may sugat o kung makararanas ng sintomas tulad ng lagnat at pananakit ng katawan (If submerged in floodwaters, immediately wash with soap and water. Consult a doctor if you had wounds or experience fever and body pain),” the department emphasized.
For free and urgent medical advice, the public can contact the DOH Telekonsulta hotline at 1555 (press 2).
Meanwhile, the state weather bureau reported that a low-pressure area has formed east of Luzon, enhancing the southwest monsoon and bringing continuous rains over large parts of the country.
The state weather said the weather disturbance is unlikely to develop into a tropical cyclone within the next 24 hours.