Health officials in Bohol have sounded alarm Friday about a sharp increase in leptospirosis cases linked to recent flooding, with infections rising 142% compared to last year.
The Provincial Health Office (PHO) recorded 80 cases from January through Nov. 22, 2025, up from 33 cases during the same period in 2024, according to Dr. Mary Fruserma Uy, PHO’s officer-in-charge.
Five people have died from the bacterial infection.
Most cases emerged in October and November following floods that swept through the province, Uy said.
She urged residents who were exposed to floodwaters or are experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention immediately.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira bacteria, transmitted through water or soil contaminated by urine from infected animals including rats, dogs, cattle and pigs.
The bacteria enter the body through cuts, abrasions or mucous membranes in the eyes, nose and mouth.
People face elevated risk during floods when contaminated water mixes with sewage and animal waste.
Farm workers, sewage workers, veterinarians and those living in flood-prone areas are particularly vulnerable.
Early symptoms typically appear two to 30 days after exposure and resemble the flu: high fever, severe headache, muscle aches, chills, red eyes, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and rashes.
Without treatment, the infection can progress to a severe form called Weil’s disease, causing kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, respiratory distress and internal bleeding.
The fatality rate for severe cases can reach 5% to 15%.
Doctors treat leptospirosis with antibiotics such as doxycycline or penicillin.
Early treatment significantly improves outcomes and prevents complications.
Patients with severe infections may require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics.
Prevention measures include avoiding wading through floodwaters, wearing protective boots and clothing when exposure is unavoidable, covering wounds with waterproof bandages, and practicing rodent control.
Prophylactic doxycycline can be given to high-risk individuals within 24 to 72 hours of exposure.
The Philippines routinely experiences leptospirosis outbreaks during the rainy season and after typhoons.
The Department of Health reported 3,296 cases nationwide in 2024, with 296 deaths.
Metro Manila and surrounding provinces typically record the highest number of infections, particularly after flooding events.