MANILA, Philippines – All 19 Department of Health (DOH)-accredited hospitals in Metro Manila have activated leptospirosis fast lanes following weeks of heavy rain and flooding. This public health measure aims to quickly handle an expected surge in patients due to increased exposure to floodwaters. Emergency services at the Philippine General Hospital and Ospital ng Maynila have seen temporary closures because of overwhelming patient volumes.
Leptospirosis fast lanes are specifically designed to expedite consultation, diagnosis, and treatment for individuals who have had contact with floodwaters.
Have leptospirosis cases surged in Metro Manila? Yes, the DOH reported 2,396 cases of leptospirosis between June 8 and august 7, with a notable number concentrated in the metro Manila region.
Hospital Readiness Amidst Flooding
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At the Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center (ARMMC) in Marikina, Medical Center Chief Dr.Imelda Mateo stated that the hospital has activated its emergency command system. This ensures the facility is prepared for the ongoing rainfall and flooding conditions.
ARMMC is currently treating 38 leptospirosis patients, including four children and 13 adults who are undergoing dialysis. Dr. Mateo reassured that medical supplies are stable,with approximately 10,000 doxycycline capsules available for preventive treatment.
The hospital also offers free medication to indigent patients from outside Marikina, provided they have a valid prescription. “We cater to any Filipino citizen who needs medicine, provided that it’s in the Philippine national Drug Formulary,” Mateo said.
Expanding Capacity and Free Treatment
In Pasig City, the Rizal Memorial Medical Center has boosted its capacity by repurposing hallways and non-medical areas into treatment spaces for moderate to severe leptospirosis cases. Dr. Vincent Moderez, Chairman of the Emergency Medicine Department, reported 11 admitted patients and 32 suspected cases in the emergency room.
He emphasized that all consultations and treatments for leptospirosis patients are provided free of charge under the hospital’s zero-balance billing policy.
San Lazaro Hospital in manila has admitted 124 patients with moderate to severe leptospirosis, recording 14 deaths. Medical Center Chief Dr. Rontgene Solante highlighted the critical importance of early detection.
“Leptospirosis can be deadly, but it is preventable. If you’ve been exposed to floodwater and develop a fever, seek medical care instantly,” Dr. Solante advised.
These hospitals are also distributing prophylactic doxycycline to individuals identified as high-risk, upon presentation of a valid prescription.
Public Health Advisory
The DOH is reminding the public that leptospirosis symptoms can manifest up to 30 days after exposure.This underscores the need for continued vigilance in the weeks following flood events.
Reader question: Leptospirosis is spread through the urine of infected animals. Floodwaters contaminate soil and water sources, increasing risk of exposure.Symptoms include fever,headache,and muscle pain. Early treatment with antibiotics is crucial.
