Health Secretary Jose “Brix” Pujalte Jr. directed all public hospitals to establish leptospirosis fast lanes and ensure sufficient stocks of Doxycycline prophylaxis amid widespread heavy rainfall and flooding caused by tropical storm “Maymay” and the southwest monsoon.

The Department of Health (DoH) said it is coordinating emergency response operations with local government units while reinforcing sanitation protocols in evacuation centers across Metro Manila and Luzon.

Health officials advised the public to remain vigilant against seasonal “WILD” diseases — waterborne illnesses, influenza-like illnesses, leptospirosis and dengue — and urged households to prepare emergency supplies.

The agency strongly warned against wading or swimming in floodwaters, which are frequently contaminated with animal urine, particularly from rats carrying the leptospirosis bacteria.

People who must enter flooded areas are advised to wear protective gear, such as rubber boots, and to wash thoroughly with soap and clean water immediately after exposure.

The DoH urged individuals with open wounds exposed to floodwaters to seek immediate medical consultation.

Officials cited that preventive medication must be prescribed by a doctor and should not be considered a substitute for avoiding floodwater exposure.

To prevent waterborne diseases, the department also advised residents in affected areas to boil drinking water if the safety of local sources is compromised by flood infiltration.