DOH warns vs possible surge in dengue, leptospirosis, waterborne diseases

The Department of Health (DOH) issued Monday a renewed warning against a possible surge in rainy season illnesses, including dengue, leptospirosis, and waterborne diseases, as persistent rains and flooding continue in many parts of the country.

Speaking at the Bagong Pilipinas interview, DOH spokesperson Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo reminded the public to take extra precautions to avoid illness and to seek early medical consultation if symptoms appear.

“Ngayong panahon ng tag-ulan, mataas ang posibilidad ng pagkalat ng mga sakit tulad ng dengue, leptospirosis, at mga waterborne diseases.”

(During the rainy season, there's a high likelihood of disease spread — including dengue, leptospirosis, and waterborne illnesses.)

Leptospirosis and unsafe water

Domingo particularly warned about leptospirosis, which can be contracted through floodwaters contaminated with animal urine. He said symptoms can take up to two weeks to appear and may include fever, muscle pain, jaundice, and dark-colored urine or stool.

“Ayaw natin yan kasi dalawang linggo bago lumabas ang sintomas ng lepto(leptospirosis). Lagnat, paninilaw ng balat o mata, pagbabago sa ihi at dumi, at pananakit ng kalamnan ang mga dapat bantayan,” he stressed. 

(We don’t want that because leptospirosis symptoms appear two weeks after exposure — watch for fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes, changes in urine and stool, and muscle pain.)

Waterborne diseases, such as diarrhea and gastrointestinal infections, are also a major concern when pipes are damaged or floodwaters enter homes.

“Tingnan ninyo ang mga tubo sa inyong bahay—dapat walang tagas. Kung may duda sa inuming tubig, pakuluan ng dalawang minuto,” he said. 

(Check your household water pipes—there should be no leaks. If you doubt the water quality, boil it for two minutes.)

Dengue risk remains high

While dengue cases remain under control, Domingo said the DOH is not letting its guard down. He emphasized the importance of community clean-up drives and household vigilance.

“Ang dengue prevention ay taob, taktak, tuyo, at takip.”

(Dengue prevention is flip, empty, dry, and cover.)

He also reiterated that the government is aiming to bring dengue deaths down to zero, citing the current case fatality rate of just 0.4%.

To support this, the DOH has expanded dengue fast lanes in hospitals and coordinated with LGUs for targeted response efforts in hotspot areas. Medical supplies like IV fluids are also stocked in government hospitals nationwide.

Aside from hospital preparedness, Domingo urged local leaders and barangays to help amplify health warnings through public announcements, mobile megaphones, and social media.

“Kung may lagnat, ubo, sipon, at pananakit ng katawan, lumiban muna at huwag maghahawa,” he reminded the public. 

(If you have fever, cough, cold, or body pain, stay home and avoid infecting others.) — RSJ, GMA Integrated News