NKTI converts gym into ward amid surge in leptospirosis cases

The National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) has converted its gymnasium into a ward to accommodate a surge in leptospirosis patients following tropical cyclone Carina and the enhanced Southwest Monsoon.

As of Friday, August 9, both the NKTI's emergency room and the gymnasium ward have reached full capacity.

Of the 125 patients in the ER, only 66 are in beds, with the rest receiving care in wheelchairs or chairs.

According to NKTI Deputy Executive Director for Medical Services Dr. Romina Danguilan, patients this year are experiencing more severe cases, often requiring dialysis and affecting organs like the kidneys, pancreas, and liver.

Some patients have severe lung damage requiring intubation and respirators.

The hospital previously reported 48 leptospirosis patients admitted as of August 8, with 10 more awaiting confinement due to a staffing shortage.

NKTI had requested augmentation of 20 staff nurses and 10 internal medicine doctors from the Department of Health (DOH) to manage the rising number of cases.

In the past two weeks, two leptospirosis patients have died from complications, and NKTI anticipates further increases in cases as the rainy season continues.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection often contracted from contaminated floodwaters, typically entering the body through cuts, open wounds, mouth, nose, or eyes, and is associated with rat urine.