Avoid dirty floodwaters – DOH

CEBU, Philippines — Local health authorities warn the public from wading in dirty floodwaters to avoid getting sick from an infectious disease such as leptospirosis.

In fact, several cases of leptospirosis are recorded here in Central Visayas and majority of which are reported in Cebu City.

Dr. Shelbay Blanco, medical officer of the Department of Health in Region 7, advises the public to avoid swimming or wading in potentially contaminated water or floodwater.

From January to November 10, DOH-7 surveillance unit has registered at least 96 patients who are reportedly infected with leptospirosis and 14 of whom died from complications of the illness.

According to the same data, majority of these cases are from Cebu City with at least 19 cases, seven of which are confirmed dead.

Cebu City comprises 23.2 percent of the total number of cases while Lapu-Lapu City is the third locality among cities and towns in the region that has the most number of leptospirosis cases with 6.1 percent.

Other cases are reported in Bohol province such as Ubay (six cases including two deaths); Talibon (five cases); and Trinidad (four cases).

Blanco said one can get infected with leptospirosis when cuts and open wounds or even the eyes, nose and mouth come in contact with contaminated water usually floodwaters.

It may also be transmitted when ingesting contaminated food or water, he added.

According to DOH, leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by leptospira spirochetes that is transmitted by many animals such as rodents and other vermin.

Urine and feces of infected animals, especially rats, contaminate the soil, water or vegetation.

DOH-7 has advised people to consult earlier so that the illness may be treated right away and prevent it from progressing or complicating.

Signs and symptoms include fever; calf-muscle pain; and reddish eyes, among others.

Severe cases may result in liver involvement, kidney failure, or brain involvement.

To prevent such illness, health officials suggest that people should wear protection such as boots and gloves, when someone’s job requires them to be exposed to dirty waters. (FREEMAN)