Floodwaters rose in several areas in Taguig City after continuous rainfall yesterday, October 24, 2024.
According to the Taguig City Government, there are free leptospirosis medications available that serve as prophylaxis or prevention against the disease at local barangay health centers.
(Photo of the Taguig City Government)
Doxycycline, an antibiotic, may be given to those who waded through the floodwaters and are aged nine and above. Children under nine, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers should not take it.
Leptospirosis is a disease contracted from the Leptospira bacteria infection. It can be acquired from the excrements of infected rats or even from dogs or cats. The bacteria enter the body through open wounds or could be contracted through the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Doxycycline, a tetracycline antibiotic, is administered to those potentially infected from wading through floodwaters as it inhibits the bacteria's growth in the body and also prevents any inflammation due to the infection.
Possible side effects of the medication include vomiting, dizziness, stomach ache, loss of appetite, possible diarrhea, skin rashes or itching, and unusual vaginal discharge.
If allergic to tetracycline antibiotics, inform the health personnel immediately to avoid administering the medication. Also, inform them if you take birth control pills as their effectiveness may be reduced if taken concurrently.
Avoid taking iron supplements, multivitamins, calcium supplements, antacids, or laxatives within two hours before or after taking doxycycline.
