DOH: Don t wade in flood water

CEBU, Philippines — Even with the availability of prophylaxis, the Department of Health (DOH) has advised the public against wading in flood waters to avoid leptospirosis.

Health Assistant Secretary Alberto Domingo said prophylaxis is not an amulet or a license for an individual to wade in flood water.

"Yes, there is a drug against leptospirosis. The most common is an antibiotic. If you Google it, you can actually find it," Domingo said in a public briefing over the weekend.

"But just because there is one, it doesn't mean that it is like an amulet that will allow you to wade in flood water," Domingo added.

According to Domingo, an individual needs to consult with a medical professional before using prophylaxis against leptospirosis.

"Consultation is very important. It is the doctors in health centers that can prescribe the right prophylaxis against leptospirosis for you," Domingo explained.

He stressed the need to determine the frequency of prophylaxis intake depending on the doctor's assessment.

"There are those who need it one time, once a week, or everyday, depending on their exposure to flood water. It is the doctor that can determine it," Domingo explained.

Domingo issued the reminder as the DOH recorded a surge in the number of leptospirosis cases in the country.

Except for the Zambonga Peninsula and Northern Mindanao, DOH observed that leptospirosis cases are rising in all regions nationwide.(CEBU NEWS)