Fish Vendor in Cagayan de Oro Dies from Leptospirosis, Possible Exposure at Public Market Probed
A female fish vendor lost her life from leptospirosis, which she allegedly contracted at a public market in Cagayan de Oro City.
A 54-year-old fish vendor has passed away after suffering complications caused by leptospirosis, a disease commonly linked to contaminated water. Her death has brought concern among market workers and residents, especially since she spent most of her time working at a public market.
The victim was identified as Mercedes Wabe Dragon, who sold fish at the Cogon Public Market. According to her family, she began feeling unwell on December 23, 2025. At first, the symptoms seemed manageable, but her condition gradually worsened.
The vendor was rushed to the hospital for treatment, where doctors later confirmed that she was battling leptospirosis. After weeks of medical care, she passed away on January 14, 2026.
Her husband shared that the complications caused by the illness led to her death. He also revealed that before Mercedes fell ill, their 24-year-old worker had also contracted leptospirosis. Thankfully, the younger worker was able to recover after receiving treatment.
The incident was immediately reported to the City Economic Enterprises and Business Development Administration, the agency in charge of public markets in the city.
An investigation was launched following concerns that the disease may have been contracted from the area of the market where fish vendors operate. Authorities are now closely examining sanitation conditions and possible sources of contamination.
The agency is also working closely with the City Health Office and other concerned offices to check if leptospirosis is present in the market. Officials stressed the need for continued monitoring, especially with frequent rains that increase the risk of disease spreading.
Meanwhile, some fish vendors admitted that sales have dropped since news of the incident spread. Despite this, vendors assured the public that they continue to maintain cleanliness and that their products remain safe to eat.
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