Leptospirosis deaths in Bacolod City have increase to five this year, the City Health Office reported Thursday, June 14.
The latest fatality is a 53-year-old male from Barangay Bata, the CHO said.
Previous fatalities who were all males were from Taculing, Banago, Handumanan and Villamonte.
Of the 42 suspected leptospirosis cases in Bacolod this year, 37 are alive, the CHO said.
The most common reason for complications and death is delayed seeking of assistance, the CHO added.
Leptospirosis is spread mainly by contact with water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals, especially rats.
The CHO said to prevent leptospirosis:
- Keep the environment clean and dispose garbage properly to avoid rat infestation;
- Use mouse traps or other pest control measures;
- Avoid wading or swimming in flood water especially during rains;
- Wear boots if there is a need to cross a flooded area and always wash feet after wading the flood; and
- Following exposure to contaminated water or soil, Prophylaxis should be taken within 24-48 hours.
Consult with your nearest health center or doctor for advice, the CHO said.*