Kaso ng leptospirosis, tumaas ngayong taon, ayon sa DOH

Transcript

00:00 Because of the continuous rains, the number of cases of leptospirosis in the country has increased.

00:06 The health department has an advice to avoid getting sick.

00:09 Mark Fetalco has the report.

00:11 Along with the rains, in different parts of the country, the cases of leptospirosis have continuously increased.

00:21 According to the Department of Health, until September 2,

00:24 the number of cases of leptospirosis in the country has reached 3,700.

00:30 This is 70% higher than the same period in 2022.

00:34 According to the number, 733 cases were reported in the last 3 to 4 weeks.

00:39 This is 32% higher than the previous 2 weeks.

00:43 According to Dr. Alethea de Guzman of the DOH Epidemiology Bureau,

00:47 in 2023, the number of cases is higher than the average number of cases recorded in the past 5 years.

00:54 But one factor is why the number of cases recorded in the past years is less is due to the pandemic.

01:00 Most of our efforts are focused on COVID and even surveillance.

01:06 We are more focused on finding cases of COVID.

01:11 That's why the reported cases we see before, not only because of the rains,

01:17 but because we can see the return, the strength of our surveillance, not only for COVID but for all diseases.

01:25 The number of cases of leptospirosis in the six regions, including NCR, Regions 1, 3, and 4A,

01:33 which recorded clusters or three cases in one month, has increased.

01:37 Of the 46 clusters, 70% were recorded in Metro Manila.

01:42 Although you can see here, the numbers we recorded are still small.

01:49 But because of the continuous rain and flood, it is important that even now,

01:56 that the data is still small, the places are targeted to increase the number of cases and clusters.

02:04 410 of the reported cases of leptospirosis are mortalities or deaths.

02:09 This is higher than the reported 254 in 2022.

02:13 But according to the DOH, the case fatality rate, which is down by 11% this year, should be monitored.

02:19 In addition, the DOH says that not only in wet season, but also in dry season, leptospirosis can be detected.

02:26 According to Digusman, this is a possible trigger for exposure from their work.

02:30 14% is actually related to farming.

02:34 And the most affected occupations are laborers, fishermen, drivers, and even those in fishing-related industries.

02:45 To avoid leptospirosis, the DOH again reminds to maintain a clean environment,

02:51 wear protective footwear if it is not possible to avoid getting wet, and to ensure that the water you drink is clean.

02:57 It also advised the public to consult a doctor immediately if they feel any symptoms.

03:02 Mark Fetalco for the Morning Show of the Philippine Nation, Rise and Shine, Philippines.