Iloilo authorities alert for leptospirosis as rainy season nears

ILOILO CITY — Authorities in Iloilo are on alert for leptospirosis, even though cases have decreased this year. The disease mainly affects farmers and workers in flood-prone areas. With the rainy season near, health officials warn that cases could rise again without proper precautions. On March 7, a 30-year-old farmer from Sara town became the first fatality from leptospirosis in 2025. This incident has raised concerns for agricultural workers exposed to the disease. The Iloilo Provincial Health Office confirmed that the farmer died from complications linked to leptospirosis while in a district hospital. Dr. Rodney Labis, who oversees health services at the PHO, stated that investigations are ongoing to determine how the farmer contracted the infection. The disease surveillance team is looking into whether exposure came from farming or other activities. From January 1 to March 15, Iloilo reported 25 cases of leptospirosis across 16 municipalities. This is a 24% drop from 33 cases during the same period last year. The most affected age group is those 30 and older, with many being farmers and laborers. Dumangas reported the highest number of cases with three, while several other municipalities had two or fewer. Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through water or soil contaminated with the urine of infected rodents. The bacteria can enter the body through cuts and wounds. Symptoms can appear within two to 30 days and may include fever, chills, muscle pain, and headaches. Severe cases can lead to organ failure and can be fatal. To prevent infections, the PHO advises residents, especially those in high-risk jobs, to avoid floodwaters and contaminated areas. Wearing protective gear such as boots and gloves is recommended. Residents should wash any exposed skin thoroughly after potential exposure and seek medical help if symptoms develop. The PHO also provides free preventive medication at local health centers.