Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan advised residents at risk of contracting leptospirosis to go to the nearest healthcare centers and take the necessary medicines in case they have no choice but to cross the flood waters due to the incessant rains.
She made the statement following reports that another typhoon is expected to hit the country even as evacuees of severe tropical storm Kristine have yet to recover.
The mayor who is also a doctor explained that while leptospirosis may be contracted through infected animals, it is usually caused by direct contact with floodwaters contaminated with rat urine or feces.
She stressed that the first and best thing to do is to avoid wading in floodwaters or use personal protective equipment such as boots,.
They also need to seek immediate consultation from the nearest health center and be given doxycycline prophylaxis.
"Swift action can best prevent the onset of leptospirosis," she added.
By consulting with health centers, she explained, one would be assessed if his exposure is low, medium, or high risk and if there is a need for him to take doxycycline which would help avoid infection.
Manila Health Department chief Dr. Poks Pangan said the city's numerous health centers are always open for those who need their services, especially in times of calamities.