CABANATUAN CITY (PIA) — The Department of Health (DOH) Central Luzon Center for Health Development (CLCHD) is reminding the public to stay alert against leptospirosis this rainy season by recognizing its symptoms early, practicing prevention, and taking the appropriate medication when necessary.
DOH CLCHD Medical Officer Angelica Joy Diaz said leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira, which is commonly found in the urine of rats.
She explained that the disease is typically transmitted when flood water contaminated with animal urine enters the body through skin wounds or cracks, especially during the rainy season.
“Symptoms may start with fever, muscle pain, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, red eyes, and rashes,” Diaz said.
She added that severe cases may lead to complications such as kidney damage, liver failure, meningitis, or difficulty in breathing.
Diaz highlighted the importance of visiting a health facility immediately when symptoms appear, especially if the person has a history of floodwater exposure.
To prevent infection, the public is advised to properly dispose of garbage to control rat populations, avoid wading in floodwaters, and wear protective boots when exposure is unavoidable.
“After walking through floodwaters, always wash with soap and clean water to minimize the risk,” she added.
Meanwhile the DOH is also promoting the use of pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis in managing leptospirosis.
Pre-exposure prophylaxis, commonly given to rescue workers, involves taking 200 mg of doxycycline once a week.
For children under 45 kilograms, the recommended dosage is 4 mg/kg once a week.
Post-exposure prophylaxis depends on the individual’s level of exposure.
“For low-risk cases, such as single exposure without wounds, two 100 mg capsules of doxycycline may be taken within 24 to 72 hours,” Diaz explained.
For moderate-risk cases involving open wounds or lesions, the advised dosage is two 100 mg capsules once daily for three to five days.
High-risk individuals with repeated exposure, with or without wounds, are advised to take the same dose once weekly until the end of exposure.
Diaz reminded the public that rural health units are equipped to provide the correct dosage and guidance on proper treatment.
For pregnant women, safer alternatives such as amoxicillin or erythromycin are recommended instead of doxycycline.
Diaz encouraged everyone to remain proactive and vigilant this rainy season.
“Let us work together to keep our surroundings clean, avoid flood water exposure, and seek treatment early to prevent severe illness,” Diaz said.
The agency is urging local governments and communities to adopt the One Health approach which promotes collaboration among various sectors to enhance sanitation, disaster preparedness, and vector control.(CLJD/MCAL,PIA Region 3-Nueva Ecija GIP)
