By CESAR JOLITO III

Leptospirosis infections in Bacolod City have climbed sharply this year, with cases rising by 600 percent from January to February 7, compared with the same period last year, health authorities reported.

Data from the City Health Office (CHO) show seven confirmed leptospirosis cases so far in 2026, including one death.

In contrast, only one case and no fatalities were recorded during the same period in 2025.

Dr. Grace Tan, head of the CHO’s Environment Sanitation Division, said infections were reported across seven of Bacolod’s 61 barangays — 10, 16, 33, Banago, Mandalagan, Sum-ag, and Taculing — with one case recorded in each area.

Tan noted that delayed health-seeking behavior and denial of possible exposure are among the most common factors leading to severe complications and death.

She urged residents who have waded through floodwaters or had contact with soil or water potentially contaminated by rat or animal urine to seek immediate medical consultation for prophylaxis at the nearest health center or with a private physician.

The CHO also reiterated preventive measures, including proper waste segregation and disposal, avoiding contact with floodwater or damp, dirty ground and actively helping curb the rat population.

Residents were encouraged to report uncovered manholes, open canals, ditches, and septic vaults to barangay officials to eliminate potential rat breeding sites./CJ, WDJ