With the number of leptospirosis cases rising to 94, including 23 deaths, from January to May 2025, the City Health Office (CHO) in Davao City is urging residents to take precautions when navigating flooded areas.

Dr. Sophia Corazon Zafra, CHO's City Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases medical coordinator, highlighted that leptospirosis has a fatality rate of 24.47 percent, affecting nearly one in every four cases.

Earlier reports from CHO indicated that by June 10, 2024, there were 70 leptospirosis cases. Of these, 62.9 percent (44 cases) were linked to exposure to flood waters. The majority of cases, 53 individuals, were in the age groups of 20 to 24 and 40 to 44 years old.

To provide support, Zafra assured the public that free prophylaxis tablets are available at district and barangay health centers citywide. These tablets are accessible to anyone exposed to floodwaters, even if they are asymptomatic. The dosage of the tablets may vary based on the level of exposure, particularly if there is an open wound.

Residents are advised to take basic preventive measures, such as wearing boots or waterproof footwear in flooded areas, washing thoroughly with soap and water after contact with floodwater, and seeking immediate assessment and medication at the nearest health center, especially if there is an open wound.

Zafra emphasized the importance of early treatment in preventing complications, even for individuals who feel healthy after exposure to floodwaters. She stressed the significance of seeking medical attention promptly for proper evaluation.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects both humans and animals. Infection can occur through direct contact with infected animal urine or a urine-contaminated environment. The bacteria can enter the body through cuts, abrasions, or mucous membranes in the nose, mouth, and eyes.

Symptoms of leptospirosis include high fever, red eyes, headache, muscle pain, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, rashes, jaundice, and chills.