Leptospirosis cases in Ilocandia up by 150%
PANGASINAN WITH HIGHEST NUMBER
AFTER the series of typhoons and flooding that hit towns and cities in the region, health experts have warned Pangasinenses on the rise of leptospirosis infection on seeing a 150 percent increase in leptospirosis cases over last years in Region 1.
The Department of Health–Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Region I recorded the highest number of cases in Pangasinan with 61 cases, representing a 100% increase from 32 cases.
La Union was second with 49 cases, against 13 cases last year; Ilocos Sur with 20 cases for this year versus last year’s six cases, Ilocos Norte recorded 11 cases as against only five cases in 2021.
In Pangasinan, six persons died of leptospirosis this year. Only one died last year.
Dr. Rheuel Bobis, DOH-CHD 1 spokesperson, said recorded leptospirosis victims were mostly men, who habitually waded in contaminated floodwaters.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial illness caused by bacteria, usually secreted by urine of animals such as rats.
Once it reaches critical stages, the victim’s liver is affected, which leads to other complications such as difficulty breathing, and worse, death. (Ahikam Pasion)
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