There is also an increase in the number of people infected with leptospira bacteria, with 83 cases recorded from June 2 to 15.
This escalated from the six cases recorded from May 5 to 18, then jumped to 60 cases from May 19 to June 1. Now it stands at 83 cases from June 2 to 15.
The number of cases could potentially be higher due to delayed reports, according to the DOH.
The Zamboanga Peninsula and Northern Mindanao region are the only areas without leptospirosis cases among all the regions in the country.
In total, from January to June 15, the total number of leptospirosis cases in the country is 878. Although this is only half of the total recorded last year, which was 1,769 cases for the same period, the DOH noticed a faster increase in the weekly count, especially with the onset of the rainy season.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection transmitted by carriers such as rats. Their waste, like urine and feces, enters the soil and the bacteria within it can infiltrate water and plants.
The leptospira bacteria can penetrate human skin through wounds or even scrapes, as well as through the eyes, nose, and mouth.
The bacteria also mix with floodwater and can infect those who wade in the floods.
This can cause kidney failure, inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, liver damage, difficulty breathing, or even death.
Symptoms of leptospirosis include fever, vomiting, muscle pain, dizziness, and headaches.
People infected with leptospira bacteria may fall ill between two and 30 days.
"Avoid wading or playing in floods to prevent Lepto. If it cannot be avoided, wear boots, and thoroughly wash your body with clean water and soap afterwards. Consult with a doctor, it's difficult," advised Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa.
"We also urge our local governments to declog flood drains and implement rodent control so that there will be less chances for transmission to humans," added the Health Secretary.
Leptospirosis can be treated as long as the patient is promptly brought to a doctor or hospital.
There is a prophylaxis antibiotic available for this.
(Photos by Dexter Terante)
