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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Free doxycycline available in Manila amid flooding

Free doxycycline available in Manila amid flooding

Published Aug 18, 2026 12:29 pm  |  Updated Aug 18, 2026 01:18 pm
Photos taken by Diann Calucin/MANILA BULLETIN
Photos taken by Diann Calucin/MANILA BULLETIN

Manila residents who have been exposed to floodwaters can get free doxycycline without a prescription as the city government steps up its leptospirosis prevention efforts amid continued rains brought by the southwest monsoon or Habagat.

The Manila City Health Department recorded eight new leptospirosis cases on Tuesday, Aug. 18, bringing the city's total to 156 cases since Jan. 1.

Residents exposed to floodwater may seek the preventive medicine through Manila's health centers and clinics, with no prescription required, according to the city government.

The availability of free Doxycycline comes as flooding affected several parts of Manila and thousands of residents remained displaced.

As of 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, 1,272 families or 3,619 individuals were staying in evacuation centers across the city.
Photos taken by Diann Calucin/MANILA BULLETIN
Photos taken by Diann Calucin/MANILA BULLETIN

Meanwhile, city-run hospitals continued to provide emergency and leptospirosis-related services despite the weather conditions.

The Sta. Ana Hospital suspended its outpatient clinic Tuesday, Aug. 18, but its Emergency Room and inpatient services remained open 24/7.

At the Ospital ng Sampaloc, the outpatient department operated until noon Tuesday with skeletal staff, while its Emergency Room and leptospirosis fast lane remained open 24 hours.

Administrative offices at the hospital also operated until noon on Tuesday to process hospital discharges and PhilHealth concerns.

Residents requiring urgent medical attention may proceed directly to the emergency rooms of city-run hospitals, which remain operational despite the weather conditions.

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METRONEWS Habagat Manila flood
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