Philippines: Elevated leptospirosis activity reported nationwide through July

Event

Health authorities have reported elevated leptospirosis activity nationwide in the Philippines, with a total of 2,079 cases reported Jan. 1-July 15. This is 1.8 times higher than the 1,178 cases reported over a similar period in 2022. Regions reporting high disease activity in the past month include Central Luzon, Ilocos, Bicol, Metro Manila, Cordillera Administrative Region, Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao, and Caraga. Health authorities have advised the public to avoid wading through floodwaters and to wear boots and protective wear if wading through floodwaters is unavoidable. This represents the most complete information available as of Aug. 1.

Context

Leptospirosis is common in flood-prone areas of urban settings in the Philippines, such as Metro Manila. Authorities reported roughly 2,794 cases of leptospirosis in the Philippines in 2022, roughly 1,661 cases in 2021, and roughly 182 cases in 2020.

Leptospirosis is caused by a bacterium that spreads to humans through water and soil contaminated by infected animal urine. Symptoms typically appear 5-14 days after exposure but can develop up to 30 days after exposure. Symptoms generally include headache, fever, muscle aches, chills, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. However, some individuals can develop a more severe illness called Weil's disease, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms of Weil's disease may include meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord), kidney failure, and/or liver failure.

Advice

Avoid contact with contaminated soil and water. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within one month of being in affected areas.