Cebu hospitals on heightened alert over leptospirosis threat

Local

WHEN floodwater lingers long after a storm passes, it often leaves more than mud behind — and Cebu Province is now confronting the invisible threat rising in its aftermath.

The Cebu Provincial Government has ordered all district and provincial hospitals to heighten their monitoring and preparedness following a spike in leptospirosis cases after Typhoon Tino.

Capitol Public Health Consultant Dr. Nikki Catalan said hospitals have been placed on high alert as suspected infections increase, particularly in flood-hit areas.

Catalan reported that confirmed cases at Cebu Provincial Hospital remain low, but Balamban has recorded the highest number of suspected patients with 19.

She said the surge was expected because symptoms typically appear two to 20 days after exposure.

“We’ve been anticipating this for a while. Diba ang incubation perios can be two to 20 days or a little bit more. So karon mao najud ni time nga manggawas ang signs and symptoms,” she said.

The Provincial Health Office has issued advisories to local government units and instructed them to strictly monitor residents who may have come into contact with contaminated water.

Municipal health officers and provincial doctors also received refresher guidelines to ensure early detection and quick referral of patients for treatment.

Catalan said the situation is not yet considered alarming, but the province remains vigilant to prevent further loss of life linked to the typhoon.

She clarified that leptospirosis can occur even without an open wound, noting that infection can happen through ingestion or minor skin breaks.

Residents experiencing fever, muscle pain, chills or jaundice were urged to seek immediate medical consultation at their nearest health unit.

Catalan said one challenge is the refusal of some residents to take prophylactic medicine distributed by health workers.

She also raised concern over the limited availability of hemodialysis machines in local hospitals, as severe leptospirosis cases may require dialysis.

The Capitol has coordinated with infectious disease specialists and nephrologists and is pushing for PhilHealth to extend zero-balance billing for leptospirosis patients, similar to the assistance given during the recent earthquake response.

Meanwhile, the Cebu Provincial Health Office confirmed 23 leptospirosis cases across the province between November 1 and 14, based on data verified by the Department of Health Central Visayas.

Talisay City recorded eight cases, Consolacion six, Asturias and Liloan two each, while Argao, Balamban, Danao City, Medellin and Sibonga logged one case each.

Multiple suspected infections and one suspected fatality are also being monitored, particularly in Balamban and Bogo City.

Health officials said the trend reflects how severe flooding can trigger a secondary public health emergency.

From January to October, Cebu recorded 90 confirmed cases, including 11 deaths.(MyTVCebu)