The sustained prevention and control campaign has brought down leptospirosis cases in Bacolod City by 85.4 percent in the first seven months of 2024.

Data from the City Health Office (CHO) showed yesterday that from January 1 to June 29 this year, only seven cases, including two deaths, were reported compared to 48 cases, with five deaths, during the same period last year.

“There are no barangays with clustering of cases,” Dr. Grace Tan, head of the CHO Environment Sanitation Division, said in the report.

Barangays Pahanocoy, Felisa, Alijis, Punta Taytay, Vista Alegre, Mansilingan, and Mandalagan have one case each.

The two mortalities, two males in their 30s, were reported in Pahanocoy and Punta Taytay.

Tan said the most common reasons for complications and death are delayed health-seeking behavior and denial of infection.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection caused by the leptospira spirochetes bacteria contracted through the urine of infected animals, especially rats.

Exposure to floodwaters can cause infection, especially in those with cuts, wounds or abrasions on their skin.

The CHO encouraged adults and children to take leptospirosis prophylaxis as soon as possible following exposure or wading or contact with possibly contaminated water or ground and consult immediately at the nearest health center or private medical doctor. (PNA)