By CESAR JOLITO III
Health authorities in Negros Occidental are closely monitoring a surge in suspected leptospirosis cases following Typhoon “Tino,” as the Provincial Health Office (PHO) coordinates with local government units (LGUs) to ensure timely detection and response.
PHO chief Dr. Girlie Pinongan said more than 90 suspected leptospirosis cases have been reported, including four suspected fatalities.
“Since Typhoon ‘Tino’ struck on November 4, and the incubation period for leptospirosis is usually five to 14 days, we are now seeing cases emerge. Early medical consultation is crucial,” Pinongan said.
“Our first report indicated three deaths, but the latest figures received by the Department of Health [DOH] show four deaths. These are under investigation,” Pinongan said.
The affected individuals range from ages eight to 66 years old, with most cases concentrated in southern Negros Occidental, an area heavily impacted by flooding.
Many patients reportedly waded through floodwaters during the storm, increasing their risk of infection.
“Cases are labeled as ‘suspected’ as investigations are still underway. Clinical signs of leptospirosis are present, even if laboratory confirmation is pending. For now, we manage these patients as suspected cases to ensure they receive proper care,” Pinongan added.
At least 22 patients are admitted to Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital (CLMMRH), with other cases reported from hospitals such as Teresita Jalandoni Memorial Regional Hospital.
Most fatalities involve vulnerable populations aged 60 and above, though some younger patients in their 20s are also affected.
Residents who may have been exposed to floodwaters are urged to seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches, or body pains. Early detection is critical to prevent severe complications.
Patients are advised to first contact barangay health units or municipal and city health offices before going to hospitals to ensure timely admission and treatment.
No outbreak
While there has been a rise in cases compared to last year, neither the PHO nor the DOH in the Negros Island Region (NIR) has declared an outbreak.
“We are seeing an upsurge in cases, but it is not classified as an outbreak because we have not confirmed all cases. Only the DOH can officially declare an outbreak,” Pinongan said.
Meanwhile, DOH-NIR Director Razel Nikka Meneses Hao said the agency is working closely with LGUs to respond to all health consequences arising from recent disasters, including flooding caused by the typhoon.
When asked whether an outbreak has been declared, Hao clarified: “We don’t use those terminologies because there are specific criteria that have to be met, but we are seeing these cases.”
Local authorities have been advised to undertake preemptive evacuation and disaster-preparedness measures, especially in flood-prone areas.
“Typhoon ‘Tino’ taught us that flooding can occur anywhere, not just in the north. All LGUs are now preparing for the next typhoon. Residents should not wait for floods to arrive before evacuating,” Pinongan said./CJ, WDJ