The wet season in the Philippines brings more than storms and rains - it also brings a surge of illnesses. While colds and coughs are most common, the Department of Health warns of more serious diseases they call the WILD: Water-borne diseases, Influenza, Leptospirosis, and Dengue, which can be worsened by weather conditions.
We may all be familiar with these illnesses, but how ready are you to face the consequences if you or anyone in your family unfortunately catches them? With the rainy season at its peak, it’s important to be aware of the financial burden you need to avoid:
- DENGUE
Dengue, a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, remains a persistent health issue in the Philippines. In 2024, the number of cases has already increased by 68% from the previous year.
The Financial Burden: Diagnostic work and laboratory tests alone can range from ₱300 to ₱15,000 or more. Severe cases may also require blood transfusions, causing hospitalization costs to reach as high as six-digit figures.[1]
The Hidden Cost: Hospitalization may mean loss of income for the patient and assisting family members. If left untreated, dengue can progress to severe dengue, which can result in long-term complications, or become fatal.
- LEPTOSPIROSIS
Persistent flooding creates ideal conditions for the spread of leptospirosis, a bacterial infection you can get through contaminated water.
The Upfront Cost: Leptospirosis is commonly treated using a course of antibiotics. Mild cases of leptospirosis may last a few days to a few weeks, but confinement for severe cases can last up to about two weeks. On average, it costs ₱2,500 a night for private hospitals, bringing the possible cost to more than ₱30,000.
The Hidden Cost: In severe cases, leptospirosis can lead to complications such as kidney failure, lung hemorrhage, meningitis, and liver failure, which may escalate the costs. ICU stays in private hospitals could cost ₱30,000 a night.
- TYPHOID FEVER
Typhoid fever, usually spread through contaminated food or water, is one of the most common waterborne diseases in the country.
The Upfront Cost: Research[2] showed that the average cost of typhoid fever in Asia is between ₱1,300 to ₱ 49,000 for mild cases, but can reach up to ₱96,000 for complications needing surgery.
The Hidden Cost: While typhoid fever can be treated by antibiotics, increasing resistance to different types of antibiotics might make treatment more complicated. It is also possible to have complications if left untreated or a relapse.
- INFLUENZA
Influenza, locally known as trangkaso or the flu, coincides with the rainy season in the country, typically starting in October and peaking in January and February.
The Upfront Cost: Medications like pain relievers and decongestants make up the bulk of costs associated with flu, but in some cases, you may be advised to take laboratory tests to rule out other conditions.
The Hidden Cost: While the flu can be managed at home, it can lead to absenteeism from work or school. For those who continue to work while sick, having the flu might mean being less productive.
You don’t have to “pay the price” when you get sick
On top of the initial expenses, these illnesses can bring unexpected challenges. Unforeseen expenses, possible health complications, emotional distress, and financial strain can affect personal well-being and household budgets.
Singlife’s 3-in-1 plan, available through GInsure on the GCash app, provides up to ₱250,000 in coverage for accidents, Dengue, and COVID-19 for as low as ₱79 per month per person.
If you are diagnosed with Dengue or COVID-19, a confinement allowance will provide you with daily cash payments during your hospital stay. If you test positive for Dengue, the plan will also provide you with cash assistance, enabling you to cover lost income. Medical expenses will also be covered if you experience severe effects of dengue, including if you pass away due to dengue.
For other illnesses, Singlife’s Cash for Medical Costs can cover your medical costs of up to ₱1,275,000 in benefits due to hospitalization and critical conditions for as low as P224. The plan includes Hospital Cash Benefit, where you get cash every day you’re confined in the hospital, including in the ICU. Additionally, you’ll get a cash benefit if diagnosed with any of 125 critical conditions, and additional reimbursements for medical treatments needed for the most severe critical conditions.
The Singlife 3-in-1 plan and Cash for Medical Costs can easily be purchased through the GCash app – no medical exams needed! Simply select GInsure, tap Health and choose the plan for your need. Accomplish the necessary details for eligibility, quotation, payment plan, profile and dependents. After reviewing your details, select agree and tick on the Declaration Form and select Continue. You may then pay the premium through your GCash account.
To read more about the terms of Singlife 3-in-1 Plan and Cash for Medical Costs, head over to https://www.new.gcash.com/services/ginsure. Terms and Conditions apply.
Users may access GInsure on the GCash dashboard or find it under “Grow.” No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!
[1] https://www.moneymax.ph/personal-finance/articles/dengue-in-the-philippines
[2] https://www.coalitionagainsttyphoid.org/typhoid-is-costly-for-families-and-health-systems/