With the onset of the rainy season, the Department of Health Region 6 reminds the public to be on the look out for Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection transmitted by many animals, like rodents and other vermin through their waste products such as urine and feces.
In an advisory, the health bureau warned the public not to swim or wade in contaminated water or flood water.
The bacterial disease is transmitted by entering through broken skin or open wounds that come in contact with contaminated water or soil. It can also be transmitted through ingesting contaminated food.
Whenever one is required to be exposed on flood or contaminated water, the health department advises the use of protective gear such as boots and gloves.
It also reminds the public to control rodents in household by using traps and rat poison to maintain cleanliness in the house.
In the event of exposure to the virus, DOH recommends to immediately seek doctor’s advise as early detection of the illness can prevent further complications. Leptospirosis is treated by taking antibiotics prescribed by doctor.
Some signs and symptoms that you should watch out after exposure are: fever, muscle pain, headache, and redish eyes. In some cases patient may have yellowish discoloration on the skin, dark-colored urine, light stool, and low urine output.
In severe cases, this may result in kidney failure.
