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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Luzon devider Pangasinan tops leptospirosis cases in Ilocos Region

Pangasinan tops leptospirosis cases in Ilocos Region

Published Aug 27, 2026 02:07 pm
Region 1 Medical Center chief Dr. Joseph Roland O. Mejia leads the distribution of Medical Go Kits to flood‑hit residents in Barangay Mayombo, Dagupan City. (Photo via Liezle Inigo)
Region 1 Medical Center chief Dr. Joseph Roland O. Mejia leads the distribution of Medical Go Kits to flood‑hit residents in Barangay Mayombo, Dagupan City. (Photo via Liezle Inigo)
SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union — Pangasinan recorded the highest number of leptospirosis cases in the Ilocos Region this year, prompting the Department of Health (DOH) to reiterate its warning against exposure to floodwaters amid continued rains.
Data from the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit showed 85 leptospirosis cases from Jan. 1 to Aug. 8, 2026, including six confirmed deaths.
The figure is 52 percent lower than the 177 cases recorded during the same period last year.
Pangasinan accounted for 46 cases, followed by La Union with 13, Ilocos Norte with 12, Ilocos Sur with six, and Dagupan City with six.
The DOH said leptospirosis remains a serious concern after flooding because the disease can be contracted through contact with water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected animals, particularly rats.
Residents are urged to avoid wading or swimming in floodwaters, especially when they have open wounds or cuts.
Those who must pass through flooded areas should use protective gear such as waterproof boots.
Rheuel C. Bobis, OIC of the Local Health Support Division and head of the Regional Communicable Disease Cluster, also warned against self‑medicating with doxycycline after floodwater exposure.
He advised residents to consult the nearest health center for proper assessment and medical advice.
The DOH reminded residents to watch for symptoms including fever, headache, muscle or calf pain, chills, vomiting, abdominal pain, red eyes, and yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Symptoms may appear days or even weeks after exposure, so those who have been in floodwaters are urged to seek medical attention if symptoms develop.

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La Union Leptospirosis
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