DOH-CAR reiterates extra caution to avoid Leptospirosis

July 14, 2018 Community Billboard

The Department of Health-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CAR) through its Regional Epidemiology Surveillance Unit (RESU) Nurse Geeny Ann I. Austria, reminds the public on the serious threat of Leptospirosis in the region during the regular Kapihan sa Baguio held at DOH Secretary’s Cottage last July 5.
Austria expressed deep concern over the increasing number of Leptospirosis incidence in the Cordillera since March of 2018, which is expected to peak due to rainy season. Disease Surveillance Report of DOH-CAR revealed 37% growth in Leptospirosis suspect cases from January to June 2018 compared to the same period in 2017. There is one reported death, a 54-year old male from Bokod, Benguet and one laboratory-confirmed case of a 30-year old male from Antamok, Itogon, Benguet.
Leptospirosis is a disease from four-legged animals infected with Leptospira spirochetes bacteria. It is transmitted to humans through the ingestion of water or food or when open wounds come in contact with contaminated soil or water. Among its symptoms are fever, muscle pain, headache, and reddish eyes. In severe instances, the disease may have an effect to the person’s liver, kidneys, and brain.
Based on DOH-CAR statistics, Leptospirosis is found to be associated with patient’s occupation. The common occupation of Leptospirosis patients are construction workers, laborers, miners, and farmers. Workers engage in these occupations have higher risk of getting the disease due to higher exposure with the environment.
According to Austria, the DOH-CAR and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-CAR) has already discussed the occupational safety of construction workers and laborers in the region. To promote safety and health among construction workers and laborers, personal protective equipment (PPE) such as boots, gloves, and appropriate body suits have to be issued to them by their respective employers.
Other than personal protection, avoidance in swimming or wading in flood water, usage of vermin control measures such as rat traps, and draining of potentially contaminated water are encouraged by the DOH for prevention. DOH-CAR Press Release / ABN