73 Leptospirosis cases with 5 deaths recorded in CAR; DOH warns residents to avoid wading in flood

Tabuk City Kalinga - Aside from the Dengue virus, the DOH - Cordillera is also alarming the public anew against leptospirosis amid this rainy season.

The latest report from the agency cited that Cordillera has logged 73 leptospirosis cases with 5 deaths from January 1 to August 10, this year.

Apayao logged the highest number of cases with 27, followed by Benguet with 14; Baguio City ,12; Kalinga, 9; Ifugao, 5; Mt. Province, 4; and Abra with 2.

Of the 5 deaths this year, 2 are from Apayao, and 1 each from Baguio City, Benguet and Ifugao.

With this health problem, the regional health department, in its Facebook post, reminded the public to avoid wading in floods as Leptospira bacteria which can be found in contaminated animal waste can be mixed in flood waters.

When wading in flood is unavoidable, the agency advised the public to wear boots and gloves or other personal protective equipment (PPE).

It is also important for the public to be aware of the symptoms of leptospirosis so that they can immediately proceed to a medical facility to avoid serious complications or even death.

Common symptoms of leptospirosis are joint pain, high fever, red eyes and rashes, sore throat, headache, vomiting, bleeding, and muscle pain.