The Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital (CLMMRH) in Bacolod City is experiencing an increase in leptospirosis cases, following the devastating Typhoon “Tino” floods that hit central and southern Negros Occidental early this month.
Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial disease spread through the urine of infected animals, especially rats, which can contaminate floodwaters.
The primary danger of leptospirosis is its potential to cause severe, life-threatening multi-organ failure if not treated promptly, the DOH warns.
Rep. Emilio Bernardino Yulo said on Sunday, Nov. 23, that there is an “outbreak” of leptospirosis cases in 5th District of Negros Occidental.
There have been three deaths and about 30 cases of leptospirosis reported in his district, he said.
Yulo called on residents the 5th District who waded in floodwaters and are experiencing leptospirosis symptoms to seek immediate medical help to prevent deadly results.
Symptoms of leptospirosis are fever, headaches, muscle pain, redness of the eyes, abdominal pains, vomiting and nausea.
Health Undersecretary Dr. Mary Ann Maestral said health officials are arriving in Negros Occidental on Monday to check on the situation.
There are currently nine patients suffering from severe leptospirosis admitted at CLMMRH, John Michael Gabriel Zaragoza, the hospital’s spokesman , said.
He said CLMMRH had 13 leptospirosis patients in October and 26 in November.
Patients who were not suffering from severe leptospirosis cases were referred to the Teresita L. Jalandoni Provincial Hospital in Silay City, he said.
A CLMMRH advisory said there have been moderate to severe cases, particularly from south Negros Occidental.
CLMMRH will prioritize severe leptospirosis referrals and is establishing dedicated wards for both adult and pediatric patients to ensure safe, appropriate, and timely management, the advisory said.
It said referring facilities are advised to coordinate with the Operations Center of CLMMRH and observe proper patient coordination and transfer protocols.
As the apex hospital of the Negros Island Region, CLMMRH remains committed to serving the people by providing compassionate, high-quality care, especially during surge situations, the advisory added.
“We request the continued understanding and cooperation of referring facilities and the public as we manage bed capacity and ensure timely care for all affected patients”, the CLMMRH advisory said. *