(August 13, 2024) – Health Secretary Ted Herbosa has recommended a ban on swimming in floodwaters due to a significant increase in leptospirosis cases during the rainy season. Herbosa suggested that local governments should consider passing ordinances in order to prevent the disease, with a particular focus on protecting children.
“Epidemic threshold sa places na nagkaroon ng baha [tulad sa] QC, Manila, Region 3 and 4A. Itong leptospirosis ay matagal na. Failure has been in the past. Dapat na-educate [na] ‘wag lulusong sa baha kasi madumi ang baha. Feeling ko hindi communication kundi behavior problem na,” said Sec. Herbosa.
He also plans to work with Education Sec. Sonny Angara to educate children about the risks associated with swimming in floodwaters.
Hospitals have reported a surge in leptospirosis cases following the impact of Super Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon. At San Lazaro Hospital in Manila, 194 cases of leptospirosis have been recorded, with seven fatalities. Due to the high number of patients, the hospital is now utilizing beds that were reserved for other illnesses.
In hospitals across Manila, 37 cases have been reported since the typhoon. In Quezon City, there have been 175 cases from January to August 9, with most cases occurring during the peak of the typhoon. Four patients have died from the disease.
Nearly 1,500 leptospirosis cases have been reported nationwide, with 162 deaths.
The Department of Health (DOH) assured that Metro Manila hospitals are prepared to handle the surge, with sufficient supplies of antibiotics to combat the disease.
“Noong July 24 na pasimula pa lang si [Bagyong] Carina, nagpakawala na ng 1 million capsules ang DOH sa utos rin ni PBBM. This time kahit meron pang existing supply, meron na ring 500,000 capsules na awaiting release and approval so naka-standby ‘yan at hindi tayo nauubusan,” said DOH Asec. Albert Domingo.
Following this, in an interview with News5, Metro Manila Council President and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora expressed full support for the proposed ordinance. He revealed that he has coordinated with fellow Metro Manila mayors and the MMDA to advance a resolution requiring all Metro Manila local government units (LGUs) to enact ordinances banning swimming in floodwaters.
Mayor Zamora also noted that he has worked with the San Juan City Council to prioritize the passage of the ordinance and certify its urgency for prompt implementation.
(With reports from Maricel Halili, News5)
(PB)
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