One person in the province of Iloilo surrenders to leptospirosis.
The local authorities of Iloilo on Thursday confirmed that they have recorded the first death in the province this year due to leptospirosis.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects humans and animals. It is caused by bacteria of the genus Leptospira.
According to the officials of Iloilo Provincial Health Office, the unidentified casualty was recorded in the town of Leon, located at the southern part of the province.
During the almost ten months from January to October this year, 30 cases of leptospirosis were recorded in the province, PHO added.
Topping the list are the towns having many rice fields.
Four cases were recorded in the town of Oton, which is leading the list. This is followed by Alimodian, Cabatuan, Leon, and Pototan, the rice granary of Iloilo.
In connection to the first death recorded, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Patricia Grace Trabado called on the farmers to wear protective gear such as waterproof boots when working in rice fields to prevent infection.
Trabado added that leptospirosis is caused by contact with the urine and feces of infected rats and other animals.
She also encouraged the public to immediately consult a doctor if they experience any symptoms of the disease, such as leg muscle pain, fever, and yellowish eyes.
According to Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, if the patient is not given any treatment, leptospirosis can lead to kidney damage, meningitis (inflammation of the membrane around the brain and spinal cord), liver failure, respiratory distress, and even death.
Leptospirosis occurs worldwide, but is most common in temperate or tropical climates like the Philippines.
It is an occupational hazard for many people who work outdoors or with animals, such as farmers, mine workers, sewer workers, slaughterhouse workers, veterinarians and animal caretakers, fish workers, dairy farmers, and military personnel.
