The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday, July 7, warned that contact with floodwater can cause leptospirosis, a serious and sometimes fatal infection, even without visible cuts or wounds.

The agency noted that bacteria can enter through seemingly unbroken skin, putting millions of Filipinos in flood-prone areas at risk.

“Medyo tuso iyong mikrobyo natin sa leptospirosis… hindi iyan naghahanap ng parang kailangan may sugat na nakikita (The bacteria that causes leptospirosis is sneaky. It doesn’t need a visible wound to infect you),” DOH Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo said.

He said even tiny, invisible scratches or micro-abrasions are enough for the bacteria to get in.

“Kahit napakaliit po niyan at hindi na nakikita, dumadaan doon iyong ating mikrobyo (Even the smallest skin break that can’t be seen with the naked eye is enough for the bacteria to enter).”

According to the agency, floodwaters are filled with rat urine, essentially acting like their toilet, and that’s exactly where the leptospirosis bacteria comes from.

The spokesperson urged people to seek medical attention immediately after contact with floodwater, even if they feel fine, and not to wait for symptoms to appear.

“Basta po napadaplis sa tubig-baha… siguraduhin ho natin na kumonsulta tayo (If you’ve been splashed or touched by floodwater, make sure to get checked right away),” said Domingo.

He also reminded the public that leptospirosis symptoms usually appear much later.

“Walang sintomas ang leptospirosis sa simula, maaaring mga two weeks pa bago magkaroon ng sintomas (There are no symptoms at first. It can take up to two weeks before they appear).”

For those who need to pass through floods, Domingo said health centers offer preventive medicine.

“Kung hindi makaiwas, tayo po ay kumonsulta sa ating mga health center – mayroong prophylaxis na sinasabi (If you can’t avoid floodwater, go to your health center. Prophylaxis is available),” he said.

As Typhoon Danas continues to affect many areas, the DOH urged communities to protect vulnerable residents and act early. Prevention, Domingo said, can save lives.