The Department of Health (DOH) announced a "Code White Alert" in all its regional offices nationwide on Wednesday, July 24, and confirmed an increase in leptospirosis cases in seven regions.
In a statement, the DOH noted that the increase in leptospirosis cases from June 2 to July 13 was observed in Region IV-B (MIMAROPA), Region VI (Western Visayas), Region VIII (Eastern Visayas), Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula), Region X (Northern Mindanao), SOCCSKARGEN (Region XII), and the Caraga Administrative Region (Region XIII).
As of Morbidity Week 28, which ended on July 13, the DOH recorded 1,258 leptospirosis cases.
“In the six weeks before July 13, leptospirosis cases showed a downward trend—from 175 cases between June 2-15 to 154 cases between June 16-29, and 111 cases from June 30 to July 13,” the DOH said.
“However, case counts may still rise due to late reports, especially with recent weather events like the enhanced Southwest Monsoon,” the health agency added.
As of July 13, the DOH reported 133 deaths due to leptospirosis.
Meanwhile, the DOH noted that the number of reported leptospirosis cases this year as of July 13 (1,258) is 41 percent lower compared to the same period in 2023 when 2,150 cases were reported.
‘Code White Alert’ issued
The DOH issued a “Code White Alert” in all its regional offices nationwide due to reports of flooding in various areas caused by “Carina.”
The Code White Alert has been declared for all Centers for Health Development (regional offices) and the Ministry of Health in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MOH-BARMM).
According to the DOH, a "Code White Alert" is issued to ensure that medical personnel in hospitals and health offices are prepared and ready to respond to any necessary health services.
The health units will conduct proactive monitoring and reporting of any untoward health incidents via the DOH Health Emergency Management Bureau (HEMB) integrated information system linked to the HEMB Operations Center (OPCEN).
Warning against leptospirosis
The DOH reiterated its reminder about the health risks of leptospirosis due to floodwaters.
"Mas mabuti pong umiwas sa baha at putik para makaiwas magka-Lepto (It is better to avoid floodwaters and mud to prevent contracting leptospirosis),” said Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa.
Herbosa advised those who need to wade through floodwaters to use knee-high boots and wash their bodies immediately with clean water and soap afterward.
“Kumonsulta agad sa doktor, wag maging kampante kasi matagal lumabas ang sintomas (Consult a doctor right away; do not be complacent because symptoms take a long time to appear),” he added.
The DOH explained that people may contract leptospirosis by wading through floodwaters or handling soil/mud/dirt after a flood, with or without visible wounds, through exposed skin.
“Symptoms can take as long as one month to appear,” the DOH said.
The DOH added that antibiotics for prevention (i.e., prophylaxis) are available but require a prescription.
“Consult your nearest doctor or health center within 24 hours after wading through floodwaters or touching soil/mud/dirt after a flood,” the DOH advised.