Enrique Ona warned the public against wading in floodwaters as leptospirosis cases in the country rose to 454 from January to May 21 this year.The figure is higher by 74.6% compared to the same period in 2010. Persons affected by the disease were ages 1 month to 69 years, and were mostly men.
There were 32 deaths recorded compared to only 8 last year.
"The rainy season is not yet over, so we are reiterating our advice to the people to prevent leptospirosis by avoiding, as much as possible, wading in floodwaters. We emphasize that they should wear boots if wading cannot be avoided," Ona said in a statement.
Regions most affected by leptospirosis from January to May include Western Visayas with 131 cases, Bicol with 51 cases and Central Luzon with 50 cases.
The said areas were greatly affected by typhoons that hit the country in May.
Leptospirosis is an infection caused by direct exposure to bacteria found in animal urine and feces. Patients can get infected when they swallow floodwater or when bacteria enter the body through open wounds, eyes, nose, or breaks in the skin.
Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, and vomiting. In extreme cases, the disease may cause meningitis, renal failure, respiratory diseases, and even death.
Tropical storm "Falcon" brought heavy rains to Manila and surrounding provinces last week, causing floods in major and secondary roads.
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