BAGUIO CITY – The Department of Health-Cordillera reported 73 cases of leptospirosis that killed five people in the region from January 1 to August 10.

According to DOH-Regional Information Officer Geeny Anne Austria, Apayao province recorded the highest number of cases at 27, followed by Benguet with 14; Baguio City with 12; Kalinga with nine, Ifugao with five, Mountain Province with four while Abra has two cases.

The department reminded the public to avoid crossing flood waters due to the increase in leptospirosis cases following the devastation of Typhoon Carina as well as the daily rainfall in the region due to La Niña.

Of the five fatalities this year, two are from Apayao and one each from Baguio City, Benguet and Ifugao respectively.

Austria said that although cases were lower this year compared to 12 cases and 10 deaths spanning the same period last year, the threat of the bacteria’s presence at the start of the rainy season was high.

“We advise the public to seek immediate consultation once they are exposed to flood waters so that they can be given post-exposure prophylaxis and prevent the advance of bacteria,” said Austria.

She explained that leptospirosis bacteria can be obtained not only from the infected urine of rats but also from any infected four-legged animal.

Signs and symptoms of leptospirosis include high fever, severe headache, non-specific symptoms of muscle pain, calf muscle pain and red eyes in some cases.