33 government hospitals activate leptospirosis fast lanes across Luzon

Government hospitals in Metro Manila, Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, and the Cordillera Administrative Region have activated dedicated fast lanes to expedite treatment of leptospirosis patients, Malacañang announced Wednesday.

The measure comes as medical facilities struggle to manage a sharp increase in cases linked to extensive flooding triggered by prolonged monsoon rains. The express processing lanes are designed to reduce treatment delays and improve patient throughput during the disease surge.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection spread through water contaminated by rodent urine, typically spikes during and after flooding events when water inundates communities and increases contact with contaminated surfaces. The disease can range from mild fever-like symptoms to severe forms that affect the liver and kidneys.

The Department of Health's activation of the fast-track facilities signals heightened efforts to contain the outbreak and manage the influx of patients seeking care across the affected regions. Health officials have urged residents in flood-affected areas to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms including high fever, muscle pain, and chills.