DOH reports 68 leptospirosis deaths

A total of 68 patients out of more than 500 who have acquired leptospirosis have died, data from the Department of Health (DOH) showed Wednesday.

A State of the Nation with Jessica Soho report by Cecille Villarosa said that leptospirosis cases in Manila from January to July 14, 2018 have reached 530.

According to DOH, this showed a 225 percent increase compared to the same period last year in which 163 cases were recorded.

DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III reminded the public on how to avoid having leptospirosis.

"Iwasan ang lumusong sa baha, ganon lang. Kung hindi maiwasan, magsuot ng bota. Pangalawa 'yun pong regular na pagkolekta ng basura, 'yan po ang pupuntahan ng mga daga. Dapat magkaroon tayo ng tinatawag na rodent control," Duque said.

He also warned them not to take Doxycyclin, a medicine for leptospirosis, without the advice of a doctor.

"Mahirap na baka magkaroon pa ng anti-microbial resistance which is something that we would like to avoid," Duque said.

Meanwhile, the agency also noted the increase of dengue patients.

From January to July 14, dengue cases amounted to 8,223, which was higher compared to 7,038 recorded during the same period in last year.  — Anna Felicia Bajo/BAP, GMA News