Leptospirosis cases up 358% in Metro Manila this year — DOH

Leptospirosis cases in the National Capital Region from January to August 2018 shot up 358 percent from the total number counted in the same period last year, according to figures from the Department of Health (DOH).

Marisol Abdurahman reported Wednesday on Balitanghali that the NCR reported 1,227 cases of leptospirosis from January 1 to August 20, still the highest number among regions.

Overall, the Philippines clocked in 2,229 cases of leptospirosis, a 105-percent increase compared to the 1,085 cases logged in 2017.

According to the report, the NCR's large population of 13 million, congestion, lack of proper garbage disposal, and recent inclement weather contributed to the increase in cases.

The details were released during a lecture on dengue and leptospirosis prevention by Health Secretary Francisco Duque at the Longos Elementary School in Malabon.

The activity is part of a DOH information campaign that aims to drive down cases of both diseases in the country. — Rie Takumi/BM, GMA News