Politics · Philippines Bureau
DOH assures sufficient leptospirosis medicine stocks available
The Department of Health has stockpiled over 3 million pills of leptospirosis medicine to manage potential disease outbreaks linked to flooding, according to Acting Health Secretary Edwin Mercado.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA – The Department of Health said it maintains adequate supplies of leptospirosis medication to respond to flood-related disease outbreaks, addressing concerns about medicine availability during disaster situations.
Acting Health Secretary Edwin Mercado made the assurance during a congressional budget hearing on Wednesday, stating that the agency has approximately 3.1 million pills stored in its central warehouse. The stockpile is positioned to meet demand should leptospirosis cases surge in the wake of flooding events.
Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection transmitted through water contaminated with rodent urine, typically increases during and after heavy rains and floods. The disease can cause serious complications if left untreated, making accessible medication critical for public health response.
Mercado's statement comes as the health agency continues its preparedness efforts for flood-related health emergencies. The DOH has been emphasizing preventive measures and early treatment protocols to reduce leptospirosis cases during the rainy season.