Province now on high alert against rising leptospirosis

The Cebu Provincial Government has ordered all district and provincial hospitals to intensify their monitoring for early detection and preparedness following a spike in leptospirosis cases in the aftermath of Typhoon Tino.

- Jonnavie Villa/IHM

Capitol Public Health Consultant Dr. Nikki Catalan said hospitals have been placed on high alert due to the rising number of suspected infections, especially in areas heavily affected by flooding.

She added that Balamban town has recorded the highest number of suspected patients so far, with 19 cases, while confirmed cases at Cebu Provincial Hospital remain low.

According to Catalan, the surge was anticipated as the incubation period for leptospirosis typically ranges from two to 20 days. This means that symptoms often emerge weeks after heavy flooding.

“We've been anticipating this for a while. Diba ang incubation period can be two to 20 days or a little bit more. So karon mao najud ni time nga manggawas ang signs and symptoms,” Catalan said.

The Provincial Health Office has already issued advisories to concerned local government units and instructed them to ensure strict monitoring of residents who may have been exposed to floodwaters.