Is leptospirosis common in Philippines?

Leptospirosis, known in most countries as a rare disease, is endemic to the Philippines. The disease is spread to humans through contact with urine of infected animals or through contact with water or soil contaminated by infected animals.

How many cases of leptospirosis in Philippines?

In 2019, around 1.1 thousand reported leptospirosis cases were located in the National Capital Region (NCR) of the Philippines….Number of reported leptospirosis cases in the Philippines as of November 2019, by region.

What are the characteristics of leptospirosis that emerged in the Philippines?

The most common clinical features were conjunctival suffusion and myalgia, followed by abdominal pain and oliguria. Among 471 patients, 51 died (CFR 10.8%); 12 (2.6%) were discharged before improvement; and 7 (1.5%) were transferred to other hospitals, mainly for dialysis.

What is the DOH doing to combat leptospirosis?

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Aug 31 (PIA) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday announced the free distribution of doxycyline in health centers and partner-hospital in areas affected by severe flooding to combat the spread of leptospirosis.

Which year has the highest number of cases of leptospirosis?

In 2017, 195 leptospirosis cases were reported, the largest annual case count reported since leptospirosis was re-instated as a nationally notifiable condition in 2013.

How can leptospirosis be prevented in the Philippines?

Yes, leptospirosis can be prevented by several ways:

1. Avoid contact with animal urine or body fluids, especially if there are cuts or abrasions of the skin.
2. Wear protective clothing or footwear near soil or water that may be contaminated with animal urine.
3. Consume boiled water, especially during the rainy season.

Why is leptospirosis a problem in flooded areas?

A variety of animals can spread leptospirosis, including rodents, dogs, livestock, and wildlife. During a hurricane or heavy rain, animal urine in the soil or on other surfaces can run into floodwater, contaminating it. Streams and other natural water sources can also be contaminated.

How do you cure leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is treated with antibiotics, such as doxycycline or penicillin, which should be given early in the course of the disease. Intravenous antibiotics may be required for persons with more severe symptoms. Persons with symptoms suggestive of leptospirosis should contact a health care provider.

What is the prevention of leptospirosis?

Travelers can take the following steps to protect themselves: Avoid touching fresh water or soil that may be contaminated with animal urine. Avoid touching objects that may be contaminated with animal urine, such as animal bedding. Don’t wade, swim, or put your head in floodwaters or water from lakes, rivers, or swamps …

How can we prevent leptospirosis?

What can travelers do to prevent leptospirosis?

1. Avoid touching fresh water or soil that may be contaminated with animal urine.
2. Avoid touching objects that may be contaminated with animal urine, such as animal bedding.
3. Don’t wade, swim, or put your head in floodwaters or water from lakes, rivers, or swamps.

How common is leptospirosis in the Philippines?

Of the 228 cases from Oct. 12 to Nov. 14, 2020, most reported cases were from Metro Manila (63.28 percent), the provinces of Camarines Sur (17.7 percent), Rizal (17.7 percent) and Cebu (10.4 percent). “With the onslaught of the recent typhoons, we already prepared for the possible increase in the number of leptospirosis cases in our hospitals.

Is leptospirosis on the rise in NCR?

MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday noted a 60 percent spike in leptospirosis cases in the National Capital Region (NCR).

What is the incidence of leptospirosis in the Cordillera Administrative Region?

“The highest leptospirosis incidence rate was noted in the CAR (Cordillera Administrative Region), followed by Region 6 at 1.34 and Region 2 at 1.33 per 100,000 population,” Vergeire said.

Does NKTI lack bed capacity for leptospirosis patients?

Reacting to reports that the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) lacks bed capacity for leptospirosis, the DOH said it has already opened its gymnasium to accommodate patients — 30 patients are currently confined there. “The NKTI still have 88 cases admitted, seven of these are still at the emergency room, while 58 are on dialysis.