DOH: Over 200 leptospirosis deaths recorded in 2026

The Department of Health (DOH) said on Tuesday that it has recorded at least 220 deaths from leptospirosis so far in 2026.

In an interview on Unang Balita, DOH Disease Prevention and Control Medical Officer Dr. Anne Dominique Asis-Matuba stated that 3,440 leptospirosis cases were logged nationwide from January to August 8.

“Bagama't ito ay mas mababa kumpara sa nakaraang taon na may tinala po tayong 5,318 na cases, kailangan pa rin po nating mag-ingat at bantayan po ang pagtaas ng kaso lalo na po sa mga nakaraang pagbaha,” Asis-Matuba said.

(Although this is lower compared to the 5,318 cases recorded last year, we still need to remain cautious and monitor potential spikes, especially following the recent flooding.)

“Mayroon din po tayong naitala na 220 na deaths mula sa leptospirosis ngayong taon,” she added.

(We have also recorded 220 deaths from leptospirosis this year.)

Asis-Matuba reminded the public to take safety precautions after wading through floodwater.

These include thoroughly washing the body with soap and clean water, wearing protective boots, and covering open wounds whenever coming into contact with floodwater cannot be avoided.

“Iwasan din po natin na hayaan ang ating mga anak na lumangoy o maglaro sa baha. At pinakamahalaga po ang pagkonsulta agad sa pinakamalapit na health center o doctor sa loob ng 24 to 48 hours matapos pong ma-expose sa baha,” she emphasized.

(We should also prevent our children from swimming or playing in floodwaters. Most importantly, consult the nearest health center or doctor within 24 to 48 hours after flood exposure.)

Free medicine

Asis-Matuba said the antibiotic doxycycline is available for free at health centers. She noted that the DOH continues to distribute supplies to communities, particularly during the rainy season.

However, she cautioned that individuals must consult a healthcare provider before taking the medication to determine if they can safely take it and receive proper dosage instructions.

“Mahalaga po ang pagpapakonsulta kasi hindi po lahat ay pwedeng uminom ng doxycycline. Gaya ng nabanggit, hindi po ito pwede sa mga buntis, nagpapasuso o pati po sa may mga allergies sa doxycycline,” Asis-Matuba explained.

(Medical consultation is essential because doxycycline is not suitable for everyone. It should not be taken by pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, or individuals allergic to the drug.)

She noted that for those who need it, the required dosage depends on the level of exposure:

• Without open wounds: Two capsules taken within 24 to 72 hours (1 to 3 days)
• With open wounds: Two capsules daily for 3 to 5 days

Asis-Matuba strongly urged the public—especially frontline responders—to consult doctors immediately, warning that leptospirosis can be fatal if not properly managed or prevented.

Beyond leptospirosis, the DOH also reminded the public to protect themselves against other health threats that include waterborne diseases, influenza (trangkaso), and dengue. —RF, GMA News