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Leptospirosis cases in metro continue to rise
Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin, a former Health Secretary, criticized the Department of Health (DOH) for its inadequate response to a surge in leptospirosis cases.
The DOH reported 255 new leptospirosis cases from July 21-August 3, a 17% increase from the previous period, bringing the year's total to 2,115 cases and 224 deaths.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa stated that the surge in cases is a behavior problem, not a communication issue, and emphasized the need to educate children about the risks of swimming in floodwaters.
Herbosa also plans to collaborate with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority to improve solid waste management, as rats are a primary source of leptospirosis.
Despite the current increase, the total number of cases this year is 23% lower than the same period last year.
The DOH cautioned that trends are interpreted with caution due to potential late reports and the disease's incubation period.
The DOH clarified that while the National Kidney Transplant Institute (NKTI) and San Lazaro Hospital are treating patients, they are not the only facilities capable of treating the disease.
The NKTI has converted its gymnasium into a ward to accommodate the rising number of leptospirosis cases seeking treatment.
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The Department of Health (DOH) is monitoring a rise in leptospirosis cases following the enhanced southwest monsoon and Typhoon Carina.
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The Department of Health (DOH) reported 523 new leptospirosis cases nationwide from August 8 to 13, with 43 deaths recorded over the past three weeks.
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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.
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Department of Health (DOH) NCR hospitals have activated their surge capacity plans due to a significant increase in leptospirosis cases nationwide.
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San Lazaro Hospital is considering referring dialysis patients to other medical facilities due to a surge in leptospirosis cases and a strain on its resources.
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