World · Philippines Bureau
Metro Manila hospitals grapple with over 500 leptospirosis cases
The Department of Health has documented 521 leptospirosis patients across its facilities in Metro Manila, with San Lazaro Hospital accounting for nearly a third of admissions. The outbreak reflects a broader surge in cases across the Philippines.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA—The Department of Health reported Friday that its Metro Manila hospitals are treating 521 confirmed leptospirosis cases, underscoring the persistence of the waterborne disease in the capital region. San Lazaro Hospital is managing the largest patient load at 158 cases, according to DOH Undersecretary Dr. Gloria Balboa during a press briefing.
The cases logged at DOH facilities represent a subset of the broader outbreak affecting the country. Health authorities have documented 5,486 leptospirosis cases nationwide, signaling a significant public health concern as the rainy season continues.
Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection transmitted through contact with contaminated water and rodent urine, typically spreads during monsoon periods when flooding increases exposure risk. The disease can cause severe complications if left untreated, ranging from kidney failure to respiratory distress.
The DOH has emphasized the importance of preventive measures, including avoiding contact with contaminated water, proper sanitation, and seeking immediate medical attention for suspected cases. Health officials continue monitoring the situation and coordinating response efforts across Metro Manila's health facilities.