Experts Issue Leptospirosis Warning Even People Without Wounds Are at Risk
LEPTOSPIROSIS – A health warning is gaining attention as experts reveal that leptospirosis can still enter the body even without visible cuts or wounds.
An infectious disease expert has warned the public about the continuing risk of leptospirosis, particularly among people who wade through floodwaters following heavy rains and storms.
Dr. Edsel Salvana issued the reminder on Monday, August 24, emphasizing that people should not assume they are safe from leptospirosis simply because they have no visible cuts or wounds. According to Salvana, evidence shows that the bacteria responsible for the disease may still enter the body even when a person has no open wound.
“Mayroon pong ebidensya na kahit walang sugat, kahit hindi po nakainom ng tubig, lalo na kung prolonged yung paglusong natin sa baha, maaaring makapasok pa rin ang leptospirosis sa ating katawan,” said Salvana.
He further advised individuals who have spent considerable time in floodwaters to thoroughly clean themselves once they get home and seek guidance from health professionals.
“Kung lumusong kayo sa baha at medyo natagalan po, pagdating sa bahay, hugasan po natin nang mabuti, soap and water. Makipag-ugnayan din sa health workers… kasi po ang binibigay nating [doxycycline], isa itong prescription drug.”
The warning comes as leptospirosis cases continue to rise in the Philippines following widespread flooding caused by the southwest monsoon, or habagat, and recent typhoons.
Based on the latest data from the Department of Health (DOH), more than 3,000 leptospirosis cases have been recorded nationwide from January through August 2026. The increase has placed additional pressure on hospitals treating patients suffering from the potentially serious bacterial infection.
On Sunday, August 23, the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) announced that it had reached full bed capacity amid the surge in leptospirosis cases and the high volume of patients seeking emergency treatment.
“The National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) informs the public that, due to the current surge in leptospirosis cases and high patient volume in the Emergency Room (ER), the hospital is currently operating at full bed capacity,” the hospital said.
NKTI added that walk-in admissions would temporarily be limited to prioritize patients requiring urgent medical attention.
“To prioritize patients requiring emergency care and admission, walk-in admissions will be subject to limitations until further notice, with priority given to patients requiring urgent and critical medical interventions,” said NKTI.
Health authorities continue to urge the public to take precautions when dealing with floodwaters and to seek medical advice if they develop symptoms after possible exposure.
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