The Cebu Provincial Health Office (PHO) reported on Sunday that leptospirosis cases in the province have reached 117.

PHO Officer-in-Charge Dr. Mary Ann Josephine Arsenal said 106 of these cases were officially confirmed, while 11 more patients remain hospitalized pending laboratory validation.

Based on PHO data, there were seven deaths within the period of November 1 to 20, 2025.

Health officials say the increase was expected as new infections are beginning to surface within the typical incubation window following widespread flooding.

Public and private hospitals in Cebu have been placed on high alert as they brace for a possible influx of patients exhibiting symptoms of leptospirosis.

At least 23 cases were traced largely to Talisay City and Consolacion.

Leptospirosis is caused by Leptospira bacteria, typically found in the urine of infected animals, including rats, dogs, and cows.

The Department of Health (DOH) notes that symptoms commonly appear 5 to 14 days after exposure, although the incubation period can range from 2 to 30 days.

As of November 18, the Cebu Provincial Government has distributed over 10,000 prophylaxis capsules to affected communities.

"We've been really aggressive in providing Prophylaxis capsules to our first responders and to our LGUs," said Dr. Elisse Nicole Catalan, public health consultant at the Capitol.