DOH sees 6% rise in leptospirosis; over 2,000 cases logged in last 5 months

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) saw a 6% rise in leptospirosis cases from January to June 6 this year compared to the same period last year.

Leptospirosis is a disease caused by leptospira bacteria, which is commonly found in contaminated urine of infected animals, such as rats.

“From January 4 until June 6, 2026, the country logged 2,177 cases of leptospirosis—6% higher than the figures recorded during the same period last year,” DOH said in a Facebook post.

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READ: EXPLAINER: Leptospirosis kills, how to avoid it

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The department noted that 2,046 cases were reported during the same period last year.

Most of the reported cases involved farmers and those who waded through mud or floodwaters.

The agency said that precautionary measures must be taken if an individual is exposed to floodwaters or works in a farm.

These measures include washing body parts with clean water and soap; wearing boots if one has wounds on the feet; and refraining from wading through the floodwaters for persons who have open wounds.

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READ: Leptospirosis can be deadly if not treated immediately, DOH warns public

The DOH also encouraged anyone to consult the nearest doctor if these symptoms persist: Fever, headache, body ache, eye redness and chills.

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However, the department warned against taking antibiotics or any kinds of medicines without prescription.

“As protection against leptospirosis, health facilities offer doxycycline that can be obtained through doctor’s assessment,” it added. /apl

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